General considerations in the chairside procedure service

Whitening of teeth that are discoloured externally can be a very effective procedure, but you should know some important information before deciding to have this procedure carried out on your teeth:

• Teeth whitening in the dental surgery occurs slowly and normally requires a 60 minute appointment.
• Teeth whitening may be somewhat uncomfortable during and for a short time after the procedure.
• Slight to moderate discolorations can usually be removed successfully, especially if the discolorations are caused either by tobacco, food, or drinks.
• If discoloration is severe or caused by other factors, crowns or veneers are usually more acceptable.
• Some teeth bleach easily, others do not bleach well, the only way to determine the bleaching potential of your teeth is to try it.
• Teeth whitening is the most conservative and least expensive procedure available for both externally and internally discolored teeth.
• Teeth whitening at home is either an alternative to in-office tooth whitening or should be considered as a supplement in difficult cases.
• The best results are with clients whose teeth are discoloured to yellow, orange or light brown.
• Sensitivity of the teeth and gingival tissues may occur during treatment.

The procedure follows

1. A 60 minute appointment is usually required.
2. The gums are protected with a plastic barrier.
3. Teeth whitening solution is placed on the teeth.
4. Teeth whitening is accomplished by the action of the concentrated carbamide peroxide and laser light (Zoom3 laser).
5. Teeth whitening solution will be applied from one to several times during the 60 minute appointment.
6. The teeth whitening solution will be washed of, and the bleaching result will be checked every 15-30 min.

After the procedure

1. A follow up with a home whitening kit for 1 to 3 weeks is advisable in order to avoid a relapse and to stabilize the new colour of your teeth.
2. It is advisable to avoid tobacco, staining foods (like saffron and dark berries) and staining drinks like coffee, tea (green tea included), red wine (not white wine) and dark beers (e.g. Guinness beer) for at least 10-14 days immediately after the whitening to minimize the risk of a relapse towards the original darker colour.
3. The teeth may be slightly sensitive for a few days because of the bleaching gel application.
4. If slight colour returns after a few months, re-bleaching may be needed (Illuminee 15% Home Whitening kit).
5. Existing tooth coloured restorations may not match the lighter shade of teeth following the treatment and may need replacement afterwards.