Teeth Whitening Waco

KöR MAX™ Teeth Whitening

At Heart of Texas Smiles General & Cosmetic Dentistry, we use both ZOOM Whitening and KöR MAX™ to brighten teeth. While ZOOM focuses more on the in-office treatment you’ll receive, KöR MAX™ is a versatile and effective whitening system that combines at-home whitening with a single in-office whitening visit. The treatment involves 2 weeks of at-home nighttime whitening with KöR-Night 16% carbamide peroxide; a single in-office whitening visit utilizing KöR 34% Dual-Activated, Tri-Barrel Hydremide® Peroxide gel, and periodic at-home maintenance. This is best for those seeking a more dramatic result.

Take-Home Whitening Trays

Take-home bleaching trays are custom-made in the office and sent home with the patient for self-paced whitening. We offer patients two options: ZOOM Whitening or Iveri (14% hydrogen peroxide) gel, which is used by placing a small dot into each tooth "well." Trays should be worn for 5-10 minutes up to one time daily. (DO NOT EXCEED 10 MINUTES). After wearing the trays, clean your teeth and trays by removing the gel with water and a toothbrush. Store gel in a refrigerator and trays in a cool, dry place. Replacement gel can be purchased directly from the office.

How Old Do You Have to Be for Teeth Whitening?

Teeth are safe to whiten once fully developed both visually and within the bone. The doctor will decide if the patient's teeth are mature enough. Younger patients can expect heightened levels of sensitivity after whitening and may need to modify times to expose the teeth for less time or to lengthen the time between whitening sessions.

What to Expect from Take-Home Teeth Whitening

You may expect slight gum or tooth sensitivity after wearing the trays. If you feel more than a slight sensitivity of the teeth or gums, please give us a call. You may notice your teeth look ‘funny,' where they look like they developed white spots. The color may look too opaque (chalky) but will even-out with further whitening. Gums may also “bleach out” if bleach sits on them for too long, but they recover quickly, which is an indication to use less bleach material at your next session to lessen overflow.

Trays, if not exposed to very hot temperatures and remain protected from being crushed, can last a long time - Dr. Lassetter still has and uses her trays from 2011 when she shadowed in an office before dental school!