435 N. Bedford Drive Suite 405 Beverly Hills, California 90210                    
 Ph.: 310-271-7727, email: smiledr@earthlink.net                    
       
       
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
  TOOTH WHITENING  
 
Tooth whitening is probably the most popular cosmetic dental procedure today. Using a hydrogen peroxide based gel, tooth whitening can be very effective in lightening stained or yellow teeth, or teeth that have turned gray as the result of taking Tetracycline during childhood. People who have stains from years of smoking, coffee or red wine can also get very good results with teeth whitening.

There are two commonly used techniques for professional tooth whitening: in-office bleaching or take home bleaching.

In office bleaching : In office bleaching is a quick, easy way to get very fast results. A protective gel is applied to your gums and lips. A bleaching gel is then applied to the teeth and a high intensity light or laser in used to activate the gel. Your teeth are monitored and the process is repeated, as your dentist deems necessary. The process usually takes 1-2 hours, and the results are visible immediately.

In office bleaching : Take home bleaching starts with the dentist taking an impression of your mouth to make custom fitted trays. The trays are tried on to make sure they fit correctly, and the dentist gives you a solution of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to use at home for a period of time. It may take several weeks of overnight treatments to reach your desired results. Take home bleaching treatments can be used instead of in-office laser whitening, or it may used to enhance or prolong the effects of your laser tooth whitening treatment.

Side effects : The most common side effect with either in-office or home bleaching is sensitivity to temperature, which usually disappears within a few days.

Cost : Take home bleaching treatments cost about $500 to $1000. In-office professional tooth whitening may cost $1000 or more per treatment, and more than one treatment may be necessary to reach your desire level of whiteness and brightness.

Results : With proper care, your white teeth can remain beautiful for many years. Coffee, tea, wine, and smoking will contribute to early discoloration.
 
 
       
   
       
 
After Whitening
 
 
   
 
   
 
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