Tray-Based Tooth Whitening Procedures

Tray –based teeth whitening, also known as home teeth whitening treatments are a common practice today. These whitening systems would allow you to use some teeth whitening techniques that involve the use of gels and trays to whiten the layers of teeth.

The major benefit of these teeth whitening systems is that you can use it in the comfort of home, and it is possible to perform these treatments all by yourself. Tray-based methods of teeth whitening proves to be an ideal solution for whitening your teeth at home, depending mainly on the type of discoloration.

The tray-based teeth whitening solutions are the traditional methods of whitening. There was a time when these solutions were available over-the-counter. These are found today as well, but in a much improved state and in better variety. There are more innovative ranges of whitening gels, better concentrations and adequate safety measures that have been accepted and much appreciated all over the world.

The First Step

Before choosing any tray-based teeth whitening treatment, a person must always go for an initial checkup and consultation with the dentist. It is only a dentist who can provide all the necessary information related to oral health and would be able to determine the most suitable treatment for you.

If teeth whitening is the only concern, your dentist will take the impression of your mouth and then use the same to create trays for both the upper and lower layers of teeth. These trays are made from vinyl rubber of soft variety.

There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening trays available on the market as well, but those are not as effective as the ones supervised by dentists. These tailor-made trays are the best choice because they fit inside the mouth in the exact contours of the teeth.

These are specially molded for fitting into the mouth like a gum-shield to allow the gel to come in close contact with the venal layers to produce an improved effect and recreate a consistent smile. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products simply fail to create such results like that of dentist-supervised whitening trays.

The complete process of teeth whitening at home takes approximately 30 minutes to one hour. During the consultation, the dentist will inform you about the procedure, the use of trays, application of gel and the results as well. The gel is provided in the form of syringes that can be used over a certain period of time.

The Procedure of Tray-based Teeth Whitening

• Whitening gel is poured inside the tray and spread evenly (in case if the tray is store-bought). If it is a dentist-supervised whitening tray, the tray is usually prepared by the dentist and his team after taking an impression.

• The gel contains active peroxide ingredient- either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This ingredient is broken down to form oxygen that enters into the enamel layers and bleaches the discolored regions.

• The tray is to be worn for a period of 30 minutes to an hour depending on the concentration of the gel. After the time limit, the tray is to be taken off and mouth should be rinsed thoroughly.

• This is a regular practice.

However, by using this method of teeth whitening, there will not be any change in the overall physical structure of teeth. Nothing about the physical structure of teeth is actually transformed, such as bonding, crowns and fillings. It is only the upper layer of teeth that becomes lighter and brighter.

Safety Issues

Most dentists usually agree that these tray-based teeth whitening system are relatively safer and better than any other methods of teeth whitening. Whilst most teeth whitening systems that promise to produce fast results are usually harsh on the surface layers, these tray-based treatments are usually wild and offer increased safety.

With these treatments, it is possible to achieve at least 2 to 5 shades lighter teeth color within a week.