Bleaching

MATERIALS USED

A custom bleaching tray, bleaching gel syringes, instructions and tray storage case.
Store bleaching syringes in the refrigerator! Heat damages the gel.
PROCEDURE

Dr. Jacobs will prescribe the treatment regimen; usually the tray is worn while sleeping.

Thoroughly brush your teeth.

Remove cap from syringe tip, express contents of 1/2 syringe evenly into the tray along the black line.

Seat the tray completely and firmly onto your teeth.

Gently wipe off excess gel with toothbrush or clean finger and gently rinse twice with water using care not to swallow.

In the morning when tray is removed, clean it with cool water. Brush and rinse remaining gel from teeth and tray. Place the tray in its case.
WHITENING IN GENERAL

Teeth usually lighten less or more slowly next to gums. A tooth’s natural color usually varies and is darker at the gum line and lighter farther from the gums.

If you experience sensitivity beyond mild discomfort from cold, Dr. Jacobs may decide to have you bleach every second or third night or use a fluoride gel. Skipping a day or two between treatments allows sensitivity to decrease and will not reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Sensitivity usually disappears after 2 to 3 days.

After several years a touchup may be necessary if the teeth darken.

Regular dental checkups are important to maintain a healthy smile.

Keep gel out of the reach of children!
  • Do not use bleaching when pregnant or lactating.
  • Do not eat while wearing your bleaching tray.
  • Do not use tobacco products while wearing your bleaching tray.
  • Do not use household products to bleach your teeth.
  • Do not eat acidic or citrus foods for 2 to 3 days as this can cause sensitivity.

Veneers

Sometimes teeth need cosmetic and minor structural help. Veneers are a thin porcelain restoration that is bonded to the front of the tooth. The preparation is much less than a crown. Minor adjustments can be made to tooth shape as well. The limiting factor is the lower strength as compared to a crown. It is more difficult to mask the underlining color from showing through. Often, we will suggest bleaching the teeth first to see if this result is adequate.

Bonding

This type of composite restoration works well with small cavities. If made too large they tend to wear abnormally and leak over time causing decay. They also stain over time. There are better alternatives in non-cosmetic areas such as glass ionomer/composite hybrid fillings that release fluoride and help to prevent further decay. These fillings work very well in children as our practice does not use silver amalgam.