Kilgore Dentist

Teeth Whitening at HomeKilgore, TX

Advances in dental care have created various methods to brighten your smile, from whitening toothpaste to over-the-counter whitening products. While these treatments have their own sets of guidelines and uses, professional dental treatments can transform the shade of your smile and overall appearance for long-lasting pearly whites. With professional supervision, we can ensure the teeth whitening product meets the patient’s needs and works properly.

Professional teeth whitening kits are available at Taylormade Dental & Implant Center in Kilgore and the surrounding area. With medical-grade professional solutions, patients can whiten their teeth in the comfort of their homes. Call us today at (903) 615-1116 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

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    Benefits of At-Home Whitening Kits

    Over-the-counter products generally tend to be full of chemicals and unnecessary fillers to create a need for re-use. Extensive overuse of unprofessional bleaching products can lead to the destruction of the enamel, surface layer, and dentin, outer layer of teeth. This creates an unstable structure for the teeth and can cause them to become weak, chip, or fall out with time.

    Over-the-counter whitening products are created for the general public and are designed to fit all. However, we know that every individual’s smile, teeth alignment, shape, and bite are all unique to them. We will customize at-home kits to include a professional-grade whitening gel solution and personalized trays that cover each tooth to the gumline. The at-home kits are more effective at removing stains for longer periods as they consist of a larger amount of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. This grants patients comfort and time while providing them with in-office results.

    At-Home Kits From a Dental Office

    Professional at-home kits are created and used by dental professionals who curate the gel specifically for their patients in a way that works best for each individual's teeth structure, sensitivity, and amount needed. They can be adjusted and fitted during the patient’s treatment time, with follow-up appointments just as an in-office treatment would entail.

    The professional teeth whitening at-home kits we provide are customized to each patient depending on the degree of discoloration and their desired whitening level. They will include the whitening gel solution, trays, and, in some cases, a light-acceleration device that stimulates bone growth and expedites results. We provide the patient with the kit and instruct them on how to use it, for how long each day, and what to avoid during and post-treatment.

    Steps for Using At-Home Kits

    The first step in teeth-whitening-at-home treatments is a consultation. When a patient comes in, we conduct a thorough evaluation of the mouth, teeth, and gums to assess the degree of discoloration and desired results. We will discuss treatment options and possible outcomes with the patient and provide them with the teeth whitening at-home kit should they choose that option.

    The teeth whitening at-home kit includes a solution, trays, and a light-acceleration device. To use the kit:

    • Brush teeth with desensitizing toothpaste and floss prior to starting treatment
    • Make sure the trays are clean and dry before inserting the gel solution
    • Place only a small drop (approximately 0.5 ml) of tooth whitening gel halfway inside on the front surface of the tray (do NOT fill the entire tray)
    • Insert the whitening tray over the teeth and remove any excess gel immediately
    • Keep the trays inserted for 30 minutes to an hour (unless otherwise instructed)
    • Remove the trays and brush, floss, and rinse the mouth thoroughly

    We will inform each patient of their specified wear time as each case differs from the other. We may also alter or fix ill-fitting trays or gels that cause increased sensitivity. We encourage patients to address any concerns they have with the solution or trays as they arise.

    Candidates for In-Office and At-Home Treatments

    Medical solutions in-office contain hydrogen peroxide to start the oxidation process, which transforms the molecules in the teeth to reflect less or no light, making them whiter. The oxidation process is effective in removing stains and can be repeated frequently with little to no harm done to the teeth. Professional whitening lasts much longer than over-the-counter products because of its strength, minimizing the amount of use needed by a long shot. However, it is important to avoid staining after the procedure by cleaning your teeth after eating, drinking, and smoking and steering away from foods and drinks that are high-staining.

    Teeth-whitening solutions only work on natural teeth and, therefore, will not work on artificial tooth replacements, such as crowns, and bridges. They are also not recommended or may not be as effective for patients who are pregnant or have sensitive teeth, allergies, gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, exposed roots, or darkly-stained teeth. We will determine candidacy during the consultation appointment and discuss alternatives if needed.

    Follow-Up With The Dentist

    One of the greatest perks that comes with professional in-office teeth whitening treatments is dentist supervision and monitorization. With our professional at-home teeth whitening at-home kits, we schedule follow-up appointments to monitor patients’ progress and make alterations as needed. This allows both the patient and Dr. Taylor to ensure treatment is going as planned and come as close to their desired results as possible.

    Throughout treatment, we advise patients to adhere to all instructions given during the consultation and monitor their teeth regularly. Patients that are experiencing pain or discomfort, or are not seeing any results, should contact Taylormade Dental to schedule a follow-up appointment. We can adjust the trays and gel solution or recommend an alternative treatment if need be.