Teeth Whitening Houston

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

The most common and effective method to cosmetically whiten teeth involves the use of custom-made trays. These thin, clear, flexible and comfortable trays fit over the teeth like a glove. These trays carry a whitening solution similar to hydrogen peroxide that lightens the teeth generally while you sleep. The results do vary from person to person but usually we have good results when used properly. There are no known significant risks with this method although about 10% of users do experience some transient sensitivity to hot and cold during the process. The whitening is a permanent color change but can go “backwards” with the use of coffee, tobacco, wine and other agents that can stain teeth.

There is a marketing effort by some dentists to incorporate the use of a light or laser in the bleaching process. However, studies that compare the result of tray whitening verses the use of a laser (compared side by side in the same mouth) show that the light has no effect- the results are from the bleaching solution only. Alternatively, there are systems to whiten the teeth with over the counter strips that are placed over the front teeth like a band aide. These do work but are inferior to the tray system that treats not only the front six teeth but all the teeth in an arch and does a superior effort in treating teeth that are not straight.

The cosmetic result of simple and relatively inexpensive whitening can be an easy and very conservative way to enhance your appearance.