Cosmetic dentists specialize in restoring beautiful smiles and this is the best place to start. In-office teeth whitening is the safest and most regulated option for treating tooth discoloration. Before applying a whitening treatment, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing any plaque or debris that can affect the whitening process. A check extractor is put into place to minimize contact of the bleaching agent to your skin and lips. A protective agent is also applied to the gumline to reduce contact. Your dentist will apply the bleaching agent to each tooth, making sure the tooth is completely treated. This chemical remains on your teeth for 15 to 30 minutes and, in some cases, a special light is used to enhance the whitening process.
In cases where only mild bleaching is necessary, or to help you maintain your new white color, the dentist can opt to send you home with a whitening kit. These kits are different than the ones that you can pick up at a local store. The bleaching concentration is higher, and they typically include a mold specifically made for your mouth to ensure that the chemical spreads evening over all your teeth.