Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.   Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Teeth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up may be needed every several months, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

What does teeth whitening involve?

Here at Serra Mesa Smiles, we use the Kor In Office bleaching system to whiten teeth.

Kor is a proven teeth whitening treatment that eliminates organic stains on the teeth and significantly brightens the smile. Kor is an exceptionally quick and simple treatment. Bleaching gel is applied to the teeth for about 60 minutes. 

How is the Kor treatment performed?

Here is how the procedure will be performed:

• A thorough cleaning will remove debris from the surfaces of the teeth

• Photographs will be taken to record the current color of the teeth

• A cheek retractor will be inserted to expose the surfaces of key teeth

• A resin will be painted onto the gums to protect them

• The first covering of Kor whitening gel will be applied to the teeth for 15 minutes

• The dentist will suction off the gel and check the whitening progress

• More gel will be applied for a further 15 minutes

• Again, the gel will be removed

• The mouth will be rinsed and the final round of whitening gel will be applied.

• The mouth will be cleaned and photographs of teeth color post-treatment will be taken

 The entire procedure should take no more than 90 minutes.  After in-office treatment, custom whitening trays may be fabricated for continued whitening treatment at home. Digital impressions will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, plastic, trays. The trays are worn with special whitening gel overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit our office regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

If you have questions or concerns about Kor or any other whitening treatment, please contact us.