Bleaching

Generally, the “best” method (time and cost the same) is light assisted bleaching in-office (eg: “Zoom”). Different types of lights are available (eg: high intensity laser), however, there seems to be little difference. Patients are usually provided with a nighttime tray and bleaching material to “fine-tune” the results as the amount of “whiteness” deteriorates over time. Light bleaching has the significant advantage of not having patients in prolonged and repeated contact with the bleaching material (not advisable).

It is important to note that bleaching materials do not have to undergo the rigid protocols of the Canadian Dental Association. They “sneak” around this by passing through the much less stringent testing of the “cosmetic” industry. Strange but true!

“White Strips” work fine and are safe, however, there is only a slight change in the shade. Do not use “paint on” materials as it has been documented that they damage gums badly.