There are two techniques which are commonly used to brighten teeth:
1) DENTIST SUPERVISED "AT-HOME" TECHNIQUE -
This technique is good for those people who simply need to lighten their teeth. When teeth have been discolored from smoking, coffee, tea, or simply due to aging, this is often a good option. [Often, if a single tooth has had a root canal treatment done, it can cause discoloration (darkening) of the tooth. If a crown is not placed to support the tooth right away, often the tooth may be bleached at a later time instead.]
First, an impression is taken of the patient's mouth and stone models are poured up. Then a precision fit splint is made (either by a lab or by the dental office) which has the facial surface of the teeth blocked out to allow room in the splint for the bleaching solution (typically 10% -15% carbamide peroxide) to stay on the teeth. This thin mouthpiece is then worn for one to three hours per night (or in the evening) daily, after the patient has carefully cleaned their teeth. It usually takes about two weeks to get to the desired results if worn every night.
Advantages include: This technique allows you to do this at your own home (or work) and on your own time. If you wish to lighten your teeth more in the future, you can simply purchase some more bleaching solution and use that. The cost for this procedure is generally a little less than the IN OFFICE TECHNIQUE.
2) "IN-OFFICE" TECHNIQUE -
First, the teeth are pumiced to clean them. Then an ointment is placed on the gums to protect them. A rubber dam (similar to a thin plastic square with holes in it to fit around the teeth) is placed over the teeth and the teeth are isolated to allow the bleaching solution to work. The patient then sits in front of a special bleaching light for approximately 30 minutes per arch. This technique usually works best after about three sessions.
Advantages include: This is better when you have streaks of darker colors on your teeth, or if you have crowns or other fillings on your front teeth. Since we are able to use a stronger solution using this technique, we feel it produces a more reliable result.
Disadvantages include: If you have sensitive teeth to begin with, this technique can cause them to be slightly more sensitive temporarily (typically for up to a day). In addition, occaisionally, the material can cause minor temporary irritation on the gums near the edges of the rubber dam.
OVERVIEW: Bleaching is a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth. For patients who are heavy smokers or coffee drinkers, the results may not be as long-lasting. The ADA has given it's approval on many of the products available for bleaching (specifically the ones used at our office.)

FOR MORE DETAILS ON DIFFERENT BLEACHING TECHNIQUES CLICK HERE!