Almost daily, I am asked about teeth bleaching and the potential damage to enamel which is a myth that continues to haunt our profession. I bleach my teeth professionally and would never recommend a product that I never tried on my own teeth. Over using a bleaching product past its recommended dosage, like medication, can be harmful. I recommend asking your dentist for the wide array of products and what he/she prefers and uses themselves.
Professional bleaching is any bleaching product sold at a dental professionals’ office under the supervision of a dentist or dental hygienist. It is usually a stronger formulation of the over the counter staples such as Crest white Strips.
Currently, our office offers Opalescence take home kits which are a milder way to try bleaching. They are worn for 30-45 minutes and thrown out after use. Usage varies from 4-10 days depending on the results you are aiming to achieve.
The next level of bleaching is to have trays made custom for your mouth. The trays hold bleach and for those sensitive patients, can also hold fluoride gel. These trays are worn an hour a day for 7-10 days.
The final level of bleaching is In-Office procedures which consist of a patient having bleaching done while in the dental chair. Bleach is applied and a light catalizes the process (ZOOM). Newer systems are light free and are a personal favorite of mine (BOOST). The procedures and chairside time vary from 15-45 minutes.
With all these options, its a guarantee that you can find a SAFE product that will brighten your pearly whites by New Year!!!
For over 20 years, Inna Chern, DDS has been offering personalized, high-tech dental care to Manhattan and NYC residents. With a focus on individualized attention and the latest technology, her modern Midtown East office aims to reshape dental care perceptions in New York by prioritizing patient well-being and innovative services.
