A guide to custom trays for Teeth Whitening to keep your teeth looking whiter

“Trays” seem like a curious word for a dental office. However, when we at Westlake Family Dentistry in Lake Oswego, Oregon, refer to this term, we are simply talking about an appliance that is placed in your mouth. Trays or oral appliances prescribed by Dr. Brad Sievert can seemingly “do it all,” everything from repositioning teeth and correcting bite issues to promoting healthy “oral posture” and healthy breathing during sleep.

In the case of whitening trays, these customized appliances are filled with a gel. The gel is formulated with peroxide. Ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide have been clinically proven to safely and predictably whiten teeth when under the supervision of a dental professional like Dr. Sievert.

Over-the-Counter whitening gels often either do not contain peroxide or they contain insufficient amounts (concentrations) of the peroxide to work and remove stains effectively. Dental practices have access to powerful whitening gels. Your comfort and safety are assured throughout the process due to how we oversee every aspect of treatment; for instance, the whitening trays are customized to fit your mouth and its unique contours. OTC whitening trays are designed to fit “most mouths.” Since they are not customized to you, the trays tend to slip around and rub up against delicate oral tissues. This situation can result in irritation, tissue damage, and uneven delivery of the gel to the teeth.

Before & After Treatment Images

Teeth whitening can take years off the appearance of your teeth, making both your smile and you look more youthful and vibrant!

Bleaching Before After 02 - Westlake Family Dentistry

Professional teeth whitening can brighten your teeth to look cleaner and more youthful.

Bleaching Before After 01 - Westlake Family Dentistry

Teeth whitening tailored to you

Additionally, we can customize the concentration of the gel to your needs if you have risks such as tooth sensitivity. We may also prescribe that you wear your trays for a shorter duration each day. It is important to wear the trays as directed by your dentist. In doing so, you get the results that you desire, and you avoid side effects and complications such as discomfort and irritation. In all, patients can get the whiter teeth that they desire in around 10 to 14 days of daily wear; however, some of our patients see a noticeable improvement in as few as three to five days.

Schedule an appointment at our office by calling (503) 386-4164. During your visit, we can determine if you are a good candidate for professional whitening methods or alternative treatments to resolve stains or other conditions that may be present. We also support the lasting beauty and health of your smile. So, we are happy to discuss ways to keep your teeth looking white and their “healthy best.”