1

Bleaching

Teeth Whitening Decatur, IL

before and after image of teeth bleaching, teeth whitening Decatur, IL cosmetic dentistry

People are now very aware of teeth and are quick to notice beautiful smiles.  We are surrounded by everyone in the media with very esthetic, white teeth.  One of the ways people are getting these brilliant smiles is by teeth bleaching.  Bleaching, also known as teeth whitening, serves to remove stains acquired from foods and drinks we consume every day. Chocolate, blueberry, wine, coffee, tea, and cola stains can be taken up into the surface enamel.  

Home bleaching may also be used to help lighten certain types of tetracycline stains.  Whitening teeth with carbamide peroxide under the supervision of a dentist has been proven to be safe for teeth and gums. To bleach your teeth at home, we make models of your teeth and then fabricate custom made bleaching trays to fit your teeth.  These trays are then worn for thirty minutes per day for two weeks.  Although the most dramatic effects are attained with continual bleaching during the two-week period, very good results can be achieved even when the trays cannot be worn on consecutive days.  Once your trays are made, you can bleach again at a later time if you notice stains developing.  It is recommended that you wait about six months before bleaching again.

Some patients have experienced increased tooth sensitivity and some temporary discomfort of their gums. These symptoms tend to disappear within one to three days after stopping the process. Usually after the sensitivity disappears, the whitening process can be started again, and usually the sensitivity does not return. In any case, any reaction should be reported immediately to Dr. Cunningham's office. They can then give special instructions. 

Over-the-counter quick teeth whitening kits can cause problems that you may be unaware of, such as irritation of the gums and surrounding soft tissue. These types of bleaching kits have a very high acid content, and if they are used too often, they may wear away tooth enamel.  Bleaching procedures are best controlled at your dentist's office.  Your progress will be monitored carefully so any potential side effects can be reduced.  We also caution our patients about the long-term use of whitening toothpastes because they are more abrasive.  Initially they may make teeth look whiter because they remove surface stains.  However, with long-term use they will make your teeth more yellow because they will abrade the pretty white enamel.  Loss of this protective enamel can make your teeth more sensitive and susceptible to decay.

Customize Your Experience

With three teeth bleaching procedures to choose from, you can customize your experience to perfectly meet your needs. At our office, we offer Zoom! and DayWhite.  You can also do a fast in-office bleaching system called Quick Pro.   Would you rather brighten your smile in the office or at home? How can you whiten sensitive teeth?  Our caring staff members will consider all of your needs while they choose the right formula for you. We will alleviate any worries you may have and answer all of your questions about the teeth bleaching process.  All of our teeth whitening methods are effective, low-sensitivity and safe. You won’t believe how simple it is to attain a brilliantly white smile. You can sit back and relax in our office, or with a home bleaching kit, you can achieve white teeth in your own home.  Call our office for details on how you can get a beautiful, white smile!

ZOOM! In-Office Teeth Whitening

Many patients venture into our office wondering how to whiten teeth fast.  They may have tried over-the-counter whitening kits, toothpastes, and mouthwashes without noteworthy results.  Even though store-bought products claim to whiten quickly, only dental professionals truly know how to whiten teeth the most effectively.

How Does ZOOM! Whitening Work?

Zoom! is a powerful light activated gel. Its main component, hydrogen peroxide, will penetrate the teeth and whiten them deeply. Zoom whitening will eliminate the stains and discoloration from your teeth without damaging them.  With Zoom whitening, you can typically brighten your teeth 8-10 shades in just one hour. The first step is to come see Dr. Cunningham for a tooth whitening consultation. We will cater to your needs and goals during your tooth whitening process.  During a Zoom whitening in-office procedure, you can relax while we complete 4 fifteen-minute whitening sessions.  You won’t believe your beautiful results!

Zoom tooth whitening has been proven to be both safe and reliable. The hydrogen peroxide and the activating light will not harm your teeth, gums, or soft tissues.

If you take care of your teeth and occasionally use at home touch-ups, your brilliant Zoom! smile can last a lifetime.  You’ll love your new look and the elevated self-confidence that comes with it.

Dr. Cunningham and her professional team members know how to whiten teeth quickly and comfortably.  If you want compassionate care and great results, you can trust us at the Gentle Art of Dentistry.

Brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening treatments from our dentist in Decatur, IL! Call Gentle Art of Dentistry today at (217) 422-7448 to schedule an appointment.