Our Services

Bleaching

Dr. Last offers several types of bleaching to enhance the shade of your natural teeth: laser whitening, custom tray bleaching and disposable tray bleaching.

In-Office Gel Bleaching: During in-office bleaching, a special solution of high strength carbamide peroxide is placed on the teeth and activated for approximately one hour. Typicially, patients can achieve several shades of whitening during this procedure. Impressions are also taken for at-home bleaching trays so that the results achieved by the in-office bleaching can be maintained.

At-Home Custom Tray Bleaching: This is the most effective and long-lasting method for bleaching teeth. Molds are made of the teeth, which are then used to fabricate thin, clear plastic trays which fit perfectly over the teeth A solution of carbamide peroxide gel is then placed in the tray, which is worn for a period of several hours. Over the course of 1-2 weeks, significant shade changes can be seen. Maintenance bleaching is then usually required every 6 months to a year. Research has shown that this type of bleaching is the most effective to achieve long-lasting and predictable results.

Disposable Beach Trays: Dr. Last also offers disposable bleach trays, which will form to any individual mouth. These disposable trays are similar to other commercially available whitening strips (like those you find at the grocery store) except that they have a higher concentration of bleaching agent and therefore work more quickly then store-bought brands. Disposable bleach trays are typically not as comfortable as custom trays.

Sensitivity can develop with any type of bleaching and permanent damage can occur. Therefore, it is important to consult with a dentist any time bleaching is performed. Additionally, recent research has shown that bleaching may result in decreases in dentin and possibly enamel strength, therefore care should be taken when any bleaching is performed.