In-Office ToothWhitening

If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter, Dr. Kochan can whiten your teeth in an hour in her dental office!

If “whitening strips” or other store bought methods have been unsuccessful for you,professional tooth whitening is the answer you’re looking for to get a whiter, brighter smile.

What can cause tooth discoloration?

There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. With an oral exam, Dr. Kochan can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is tooth whitening becoming more popular?

Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference. Our techniques make it easier and faster than ever before to achieve a whiter smile.

Is tooth whitening safe?

Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available.Dental whitening is not recommended for children under 16 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

How does In-Office Whitening work?

After a patients lips and gums are coated, a whitening gel is painted on the teeth. The gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged.

Is the In-Office procedure painful?

No. During the procedure, patients can actually read or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.

How long is the procedure?

The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual whitening session).

What is the difference between “In-Office” and “At-Home” whitening?

For the majority of patients and circumstances, Dr. Kochan prefers “At-Home” whitening for her patients. The results are superior, and the whiteness of the patients teeth lasts much longer. “At-Home” whitening is also more cost effective for the patients, since their white smile can be maintained forever, just by keeping their custom trays and purchasing inexpensive refills of the whitening gel. With “In-Office” whitening, if teeth discolor over time with the use of coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco products, the entire procedure needs to be repeated to re-lighten the teeth.

However, if you have a last minute event in your future such as a wedding or school reunion, and don’t have enough time to do the “At-Home” whitening procedure….then the “In-Office” method is for you!