ZOOM! POWER BLEACHING

 (Significant whitening in only an hour as seen on ABC's Extreme Makeover)

How Much Change Can I Expect?

Just like sun-tanning, everyone responds differently to bleaching, but the average change is about 8 shades. Yellowish teeth tend to respond the best, brownish and grayish teeth less so. Even severely stained teeth (such as tetracycline staining) will respond, but will not lighten as completely as regularly stained teeth.

I Have Crowns or White Fillings---Will THEY Get Lighter, Too? No. Only teeth respond to the bleaching process---crowns and fillings will generally remain the same color. Many patients choose to redo prominently visible crowns or fillings to match their new lighter colored teeth after bleaching.

Is There a Best Time to Bleach?

Yes. Tooth surfaces are most receptive to bleaching soon after a professional cleaning and polishing (within a week or two). If you have sensitive roots that need to be scaled, you should wait 2 weeks afterwards before bleaching. Any decayed teeth should be repaired before bleaching.

Is There Any Discomfort or Sensitivity?

Again, everyone responds differently, but any discomfort is usually minimal and temporary. Patients with exposed root surfaces may experience more discomfort and we typically will try to cover up these areas (they don't bleach well and are often sensitive). Such areas can be bonded later to better match the lightened teeth if desired. Sometimes there may be some temporary blanching and discomfort to the adjacent gums in the areas bleached as well.

'"

How Long Does Whitening Last?

The bleaching itself is long lasting. However, re-exposure to staining substances (such as tea, coffee, smoking, colas, etc.) will gradually discolor teeth again. Patients who often use such products will discolor faster than others. This is a great time to consider giving up bad habits (like quitting smoking) to preserve that white smile! We DO recommend all patients especially avoid staining habits in the first 48 hours after bleaching (when the teeth are especially vulnerable to restaining).

Can ANYONE Do It?

To Power Bleach, you must be at least 13 years old, not pregnant or nursing, and not currently be using any photo reactive (light sensitive) medications (such as doxycycline).

Is It EXPENSIVE?

The introductory cost is only $495 and includes a whitening maintenance kit.