Oklahoma City Teeth Whitening For Gleaming Smiles
Stained, yellowed, discolored teeth? For those who are looking to enhance their smiles, OKC Dental Arts are happy to offer teeth whitening in Oklahoma City. The teeth whitening services at our Oklahoma city office are designed to remove discoloring from years of stains that have built up on your teeth. Our take-home and chair-side teeth whitening treatments can give you back the fresh, white smile that you’ve been missing. We provide several options for teeth whitening and will make recommendations on a case by case basis.
It’s safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin bleaching. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much of each shows when you talk and smile.
In only a day or two your custom bleach splints will be ready for you to pick up. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear, almost invisible splints. With only a few hours of wear per day, our special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time, without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the brightness you want, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. We will want to take “after” photos at your next appointment.
Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. These discolorations may have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Using the latest in bleaching technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful, “brilliant” smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice. But because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a try.
Key Benefits
- Corrects brown, yellow and mottled tooth staining
- Works on people of all ages.
- Is a near permanent solution for a “dull” smile, restoring brightness and bringing a smile alive.
How Is It Done?
An impression is taken to make a specialized “mouthguard” or “stent” to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night while sleeping. After 10 to 14 nights of wear, significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology offers improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.
Another alternative is “in office” bleaching. Some prefer this as it bleaches more quickly. Most have heard of the “Zoom in office” bleaching process. As you may know, this process requires a special light that is used. Current research shows that this special light actually has no affect on the bleaching process at all. Todays in office products have activators in the solutions eliminating the need for special lights. It should be noted that the manufacturers of “in office” solutions still recommend the use of trays worn at night to enhance the process.
Considerations
Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can harm the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends. While the Crest White Strips are safe, because the active solution is not prescription strength, it has a limited affect.
Oklahoma City Teeth Whitening FAQ’s
Advanced Technology: Opalescence Tooth Whitening
WHAT IS OPALESCENCE TOOTH WHITENING?
Opalescence is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.
WHAT CAN CAUSE TOOTH DISCOLORATION?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.
WHO MAY BENEFIT FROM TOOTH WHITENING?
Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, Dr. Fling and Dr. Cord can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.
IS TOOTH WHITENING BECOMING MORE POPULAR?
Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference. The Opalescence Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.
IS TOOTH WHITENING SAFE?
Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth-whitening product, Opalescence is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.
DO THE RESULTS LAST A LONG TIME?
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing and brushing twice daily. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.
IS THERE ANY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OVER-THE-COUNTER TOOTH WHITENERS AND OPALESCENCE?
Yes! Consulting with Dr. Fling and Dr. Cord are always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Opalescence is clinically proven to whiten your teeth in just one week.
HOW DOES THE OPALESCENCE IN-OFFICE SYSTEM WORK?
Many people are familiar with Zoom light-activated whitening system. Current research shows the patented light used in this system has no affect on the bleaching process. Because the light dehydrates the tooth, the initial appearance shows the teeth to be noticeably lighter. However, after the teeth rehydrate 24 to 48 hours later, this lightness is lessened. Most in office systems today have self-activators, negating the need for any stimulus to activation such as a light. The solutions active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged.
IS THE “IN-OFFICE” PROCEDURE PAINFUL?
No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.
HOW LONG IS THE PROCEDURE?
The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual whitening session).
HOW LONG DOES OPALESCENCE TAKE-HOME WHITENING TAKE?
The take-home gel is designed to be worn between four and eight hours per application. Dr. Fling and Dr. Cord will advise you on how long you should wear each application. A recent study showed that you can achieve an average improvement of six shades after just three nights of use. Dr. Fling and Dr. Cord will help you determine how many applications are right for you.
HOW IS THE OPALESCENCE TAKE-HOME SYSTEM DIFFERENT FROM THE “IN-OFFICE” SYSTEM?
The main difference between the two systems is that you use the Take-Home System in the convenience of your own home over several nights. The “In-Office” System is performed entirely in the office (although the manufacturers still recommend the trays be worn a few nights in conjunction with the In Office system to enhance its effectiveness).
Schedule An Oklahoma City Teeth Whitening Consultation
Are you interested in having whiter teeth and a radiant smile? Now is the time to talk to Dr. Fling and Dr. Cord about an Oklahoma City teeth whitening solution that is best for you. Schedule your appointment today to discuss options with our dental team!