League City Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Tieken

Tooth Whitening

How white will my teeth become?: How much a tooth can be whitened depends upon the severity and type of the stain, the method used to whiten and, in some cases, the committment of the client.
Types of Tooth Whitening Procedures: There are a wide range of tooth whitening procedures available. One of them will easily fit your budget and desired result.
Laser Bleaching (In-Office): Using a laser with a whitening gel can achieve one of the best results. The laser light actually enhances the effect of the bleaching gel and intensifies the effect. Usually within one hour, unless you have heavy staining, a very dull smile can become dazzling white.
Tooth Bleaching (In-Office): A bleaching gel is used in conjunction with molded plastic mouth trays. This procedure is usually started in-office and continued at home with a professionally dispensed whitening kit. It is effective but more affordable than laser whitening.
Tooth Veneers (In-Office): Veneers are a very conservative way to make an extremely dramatic change to your smile. Veneers can correct chips, gaps, discoloration and crooked teeth. The thin shell of a porcelain veneer is bonded over the prepared surface creating an instant makeover.

Advantages:: The dramatic change that tooth whitening can bring to your smile has definite effects on your well-being. When we look better, we feel better. Your confidence in social situations will increase. The impression that a bright, white smile gives others of youth and health can be an asset in both professional and personal situations.
Disadvantages:: In some cases, patients have reported some gum or tooth sensitivity because of the strength of the bleach. These effects will dissappear when the treatment is discontinued. Sometimes there are very deep, stubborn stains that don't respond well to tooth whitening and these may need additional procedures.