Teeth Whitening Las Vegas

A bright and healthy smile gives the impression of vitality and warmth.

If you are nearing the end of your treatment with braces 89117, you are probably very excited to see your new smile. At this point in orthodontic treatment, many of our patients opt to whiten their teeth when their braces are removed to ensure that the surface of their teeth are even, avoiding the white spots where brackets were held in place. After all, a bright and healthy looking smile gives the impression of vitality and warmth. 

Coffee, genetics, and certain foods can discolor teeth over time, and if you've worn your braces for several years, your teeth are bound to have some discoloration. If your smile has lost its luster, you have a choice between teeth whitening in a dental office or at-home whitening with over-the counter products.

At-home whitening products include:

• Whitening rinses are used like a mouthwash. All you do is swirl the rinse around your mouth for a minute. Because the whitening agent is in contact with teeth for a short time, these rinses whiten teeth gradually. 

• Whitening toothpastes have mild abrasives or enzymes that remove surface stains. However, some people develop sensitive teeth if they use whitening toothpaste. Gel strips are usually applied to teeth once a day for up to 2 hours. For full effect most strips must be worn for 10 to 20 days. 

• Whitening trays are plastic trays filled with whitening gel that fit over teeth like a tooth guard. These products whiten teeth fast, but because these trays are not custom-made to fit your teeth, they are more likely to rub and irritate gums.

At-home whiteners are easy to use and relatively inexpensive, but if your teeth or gums are sensitive, at-home whiteners may not be the best choice because they can cause irritation. If you choose to have at-home whitening, a tray will be used, and will benefit you by working as a retainer while your teeth are being whitened. 

It’s important to remember that teeth whiteners only work on natural enamel. So if you whiten your teeth too much, you can end up making your natural teeth whiter than your crowns or composite fillings, which can stick out visually. 

In-office bleaching (at our dental office) will consist of stronger bleaching solution than what's found in the at-home kits, but you’re less likely to have irritation. A foamy material is placed around the teeth to protect your gums before the bleaching solution is applied. A light or heat source may be used to speed up the process. 

This type of teeth whitening is extremely effective and can transform teeth in a single office visit. Your teeth can literally brighten up to 10 shades in about an hour. 

With dentist-supervised whitening systems, even patients with sensitive teeth can undergo teeth whitening treatment without experiencing pain. 

It’s important to note that women who are pregnant or nursing shouldn’t use teeth whiteners. They also shouldn’t be used without a dentist's supervision if you have gum problems or untreated tooth decay. 

Tooth whitening can last for one or more years, depending on how well you take care of your teeth. Our dentists are best qualified to handle any problems that may arise from whitening treatments. 

If you are getting your braces off soon and are interested in teeth whitening, please call 702.660.2256 to schedule an appointment, and let us know so that we can set aside the appropriate amount of time for your appointment. Feel free to call and speak with our experienced dentists and learn which treatment is best for you.