2008 November
Approximately 20 years ago, I started providing professional tooth whitening to my patients when manufacturers perfected a user friendly delivery system and a peroxide formulation that was safe and easy to use. At that time, there was only one kind of whitening system available – dentist supervised tray delivery. After taking a mould of the patient’s teeth, we fabricate a soft plastic, custom fitted tray that adapts intimately to the patient’s teeth and does NOT cover the gums. The patient is then provided with the tray and a 15% – 30% carbamide peroxide gel syringe.
To use this whitening system, the patient places the peroxide gel into the custom tray, inserts the tray into their mouth, and leaves the tray in for 30 minutes. This procedure is used twice a day. The key to getting good results with this method is for the patient to remain motivated. A motivated patient will usually see results in one to two weeks. To get the best results possible, sometimes it may take as long as six weeks.
