Q: How does bleaching work? 
A: The procedure uses oxidizing agents such as hydrogen  or carbamine peroxide. The bleach agent penetrates the porosities in the crystalline structure of enamel, the outside covering of the teeth.  The bleaching gel used in the dental office is  around 35% to 45% (hydrogen peroxide equivalent).  Home bleaching uses around 10% to 16% (hydrogen peroxide equivalent) bleach but longer periods are required. Both methods work,  perhaps equally well.  The in-office procedure is faster but can burn soft tissues.  At home, 16% may be too strong for some patients.


Q: How much will my teeth lighten?
A: Every patient is different.  Teeth are different and some lighten easily and others seem to change very little.  If the layer underneath the enamel, the dentin, is dark or yellow,  this will make bleaching much more difficult and the process will take longer. See the hype for what it is,  expect less than refrigerator white teeth and you will probably be very pleased.  No teeth are refrigerator white; it just doesn't happen in the animal kingdom and that includes us.


Q: Once my teeth are bleached will they darken?
A: Some of the lightening will be lost over time.  If you are using at home systems,  you can easily do short "touch up" treatments.


Q: Will I get a better result with a system that is done in a dental office advertising a special light? 
A: Probably not.  The light activation method will be more costly, but the research does not support use of the light.  Light activation of the bleach is not harmful.  I, and many other dentists and researchers, just don't feel that it adds much, if anything,  to the process.

Q: Will bleaching hurt my teeth?
A: It is doubtful that bleaching hurts teeth as long as it is not overdone in an attempt to have unnaturally white teeth.  There may be some transient sensitivity.  With in-office bleaching, the strong peroxide can burn gum tissue even though, for the most part, they will be protected and covered during the procedure.  Harm to gums is not lasting or serious but can be a bit uncomfortable for a day or so.


Q: I would like to have lighter teeth but can't afford the $250 to $1000 charged by my dentist.  Is there anything I can do? 
A: Yes. Over the counter bleaches work very well. My favorite method is Crest Night White.  I am not paid by the manufacturer and have no financial interest it.  After using all the methods,  I just like it best (remember,  you have to paint it on dry teeth and be ready for a little work when it is time to remove it).  The strip lighteners work also and many prefer their greater ease of use.