6 Things to Know About the Dental Whitening Procedure: What to Expect and How It Works

Has the brightness of your smile faded over time, or has your smile never been as bright as you would like? With so many over the counter products promising a great smile yet failing to deliver the results you want, it’s easy to get discouraged and give up on getting the smile they always wanted. But here at Albrecht Dentistry in West Bend, Wisconsin, we’re happy to tell you there’s hope! Dr James (Jim) Albrecht and his incredible team are experts at helping folks just like you find their perfect smile.

1. Understanding the Reasons for Teeth Discoloration

There’s no one cause of teeth discoloration, and many things can lead to a dull or stained smile. Neglecting your oral hygiene can cause teeth to become yellowed or stained, and injuries or accidents can also contribute to a less-than-desired appearance. For most people, the simple process of aging darkens the color of your teeth. 

2. Extrinsic Discoloration

Extrinsic stains affect the surface of your teeth. These types of discolorations include staining at the margins of fillings, stains in crevices (especially between crooked teeth), and discolorations due to hard tartar buildup or soft plaque buildup. Because stains are on the surface of the teeth and not in the teeth, stains can usually be removed by having a professional cleaning of your teeth.

3. Intrinsic Discoloration

Intrinsic stains are deeper stains that impact the enamel and underlying dentin layer beneath the enamel. Returning to the previous example, consider the white undershirt becoming yellow and stained. Even if the sheer white top shirt is stain-free, the discoloration will show through it. 

4. The Dark Truth About Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Let’s briefly talk about why over-the-counter products are not very effective. Over-the-counter bleaching products are not allowed to use active ingredients (hydrogen peroxide) that are as strong as what professional dentists can use. That is because dentists can monitor and apply higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide safely without causing harm to their patients. Another factor that limits the effectiveness of over the counter products is the delivery of the bleaching agent to the teeth. Over the counter products mostly use ill-fitting tape or trays to hold the bleaching agent by the teeth, limiting the bleach contact with the teeth and reducing comfort due to a loose and annoying fit. Also, over-the-counter products usually take 30 minutes to two hours per bleaching session and very often result in tooth sensitivity. Studies have shown that as many as 80% of people experience sensitivity, and 40% of people who bleach their teeth quit before treatment is done due to sensitivity.

5. What Sets Colgate Optic-White Apart

We at Albrecht Dentistry offer patients Colgate Optic-White in-office professional teeth whitening treatments and at-home teeth bleaching. There are no uncomfortable trays or tape, there is no long bleaching process, and there is NO sensitivity!

The system uses a unique patented pen to apply a bleaching serum to the teeth, leaving a very thin and clear coating. Within seconds, a protective film develops on the outer surface, allowing the bleaching agent to be held extremely close to the tooth without being washed away. Finally, a comfortable bite tray with a patented light activator is placed and worn for ten minutes. The in-office bleaching process is done three consecutive times, and then a take-home kit is given so you can do the process once before going to bed. You can do the nightly treatment as many times as you want, up to about 30 times.

6. Getting the Brightest Smile of Your Life 

If you’re ready for the brightest, whitest smile, call Albrecht Dentistry at (262) 357-6622 to set up your consultation today. Get your smile super bright with Dr. Jim Albrecht.

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