A bright, clean smile can make a dazzling first impression. Unfortunately, different types of stains can discolor your teeth, distracting from your smile and overall appearance. If your smile is currently suffering from surface stains – the most common form of discoloration – then you can likely benefit from a professional teeth whitening procedure.
At our Bridgeport dental practice, patients can remove a significant percentage of stains through the Sapphire teeth whitening technique. Like other professional bleaching systems, Sapphire whitening offers results that are far superior to over-the-counter products, while also offering efficiency and effectiveness that put Sapphire whitening in a league of its own.
Sapphire Whitening vs. Other Products
When people first decide to achieve a whiter smile, it’s common to first try store bought products due to their relatively inexpensive price and ease of use. However, it is often immediately apparent that such products offer very limited results. After home treatment, teeth may appear a shade or two whiter, but the most obvious stains may not appear to change at all. Moreover, the generic products are not customized to a patient’s particular mouth, resulting in bleaching agents that spill onto the gums or produce uneven results.
With professional whitening, patients can achieve a noticeably whiter smile after only one treatment session lasting an hour or less. Moreover, the Sapphire technique utilizes a professional-grade concentration of bleaching gel that is applied to teeth evenly, and is subsequently enhanced through the use of a special blue light. The difference is clear and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Candidates for Sapphire Teeth Whitening
If the color of your smile is negatively impacted by widespread stains, you will likely benefit from an in-office whitening session. Treatment is particularly well suited for patients who want to see an immediate and long-lasting improvement to their natural smiles, and do not wish to use any restorations such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding.
The best candidates for teeth whitening are those whose stains are caused primarily by surface, or extrinsic, discoloration. These stains are located on or within the outer layer of enamel, and can thus be removed through the enamel’s absorption of whitening gel. Surface stains are most often the result of certain foods or drinks, inconsistent hygiene, aging, tobacco use, or any combination thereof. Speak with your dentist to learn more about the source of your discoloration and how it can best be treated.
What to Expect from Sapphire Whitening Treatment
When you come in for Sapphire tooth whitening, you can expect the following procedure to take place:
- First, a retractor device will be placed between the teeth and the cheeks to isolate the treatment area and prevent the cheeks from getting in the way.
- The gums will then be protected through a solid or liquid material that is personally fitted or painted over them. This will keep the soft gingival tissue from coming in contact with the gel.
- The whitening gel will be applied over each tooth in an even coat, and left in place for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your desired treatment level.
- The Sapphire light will be focused on both arches of the mouth during this time, expediting the absorption of the gel and increasing its efficacy.
- Depending on the length and extent of treatment, the gel may be reapplied a second or third time throughout the appointment.
When treatment is complete, you will be able to see instantaneous results. Your surface stains will be significantly reduced and the enamel will appear brighter overall. For shorter treatment durations, patients may see an improvement of up to seven shades, while longer treatments can yield results of up to 12 shades brighter. Although it is up to you to continue to take care of your teeth to prevent future discoloration, a smile that has benefited from Sapphire whitening will always remain brighter than if it had not.
Come In for a Consultation
If you suspect that your smile may be improved through whitening treatment, visit our office to learn more about your options. Even if Sapphire whitening isn’t for you, we offer alternative cosmetic treatments to permanently improve the shape or color of your smile. Schedule your initial appointment today!