How To Use and Clean Custom Teeth Whitening Trays?

Teeth whitening is a popular procedure and it can be extremely safe and effective. Unfortunately, most teeth whitening techniques are ineffective and unsafe with misleading claims. For instance, the science proves that the application of light does not enhance the results and it is a gimmick! In this video, dr Matt Nejad will explain the best method for safely bleaching your teeth with the custom-designed teeth whitening trays (also known as bleaching trays)

THIS VIDEO INCLUDES: The best whitening gel for safe results The best teeth whitening method The design features of the best custom teeth whitening trays How to properly use at-home custom whitening trays How long to wear custom whitening traysHow to clean and care for custom whitening trays

WHAT IS THE BEST TEETH WHITENING GEL? The best and safest whitening gel on the market is 10% carbamide peroxide. Higher concentrations do not translate to better results, but they do guarantee higher sensitivity for most patients. 10% carbamide peroxide has been extensively studied by Dr. Van Haywood and shown to have safe and effective. The lower concentration is made more effective by increasing the application time.

THE BEST TEETH WHITENING METHOD The best and safest teeth whitening is achieved with properly designed and fitted custom whitening trays. This method of whitening is also known as Nightguard vital bleaching among dental professionals, but most people refer to this as custom tray whitening. The use of light does not enhance or activate the gel and it is a gimmick. Always avoid any methods that involve abrasive ingredients or acid as they will damage your enamel and they are completely unnecessary.

DESIGN FEATURES FOR BEST RESULTS WITH CUSTOM WHITENING TRAYS A lot of custom whitening trays have poor designs that are ineffective and waste expensive gel material. The goal of the whitening tray is to form an extremely precise and tight gingival seal or gumline seal to prevent leakage of whitening material out of the tray and to prevent saliva from entering between the tray. The best tray material is slightly thicker and rubbery to make this tight seal. Most trays are scalloped to follow the gumline but this is a poor design for seal and make the trays flimsy. Your dental models need to be customized prior to making the trays so that they slightly fit under the gumline to form this super tight seal. Lastly, no reservoir is recommended to hold the whitening gel because studies show that it only wastes gel without improving results.

HOW TO PROPERLY USE CUSTOM WHITENING TRAYS When custom whitening trays are designed as described above, they are easy to use and maintain. When placing the gel, only place a small amount on the front (facial) surface of each tooth. When placing your tray, use your finger to adapt the tray around each tooth and then wipe any excess gel that comes out of the tray.

HOW LONG TO WEAR CUSTOM WHITENING TRAYS You can safely whiten teeth with 10% carbamide peroxide for 10+ hours. The gel is active this entire time, but there are certain conditions that may not allow for this extended wear. This includes gum recession, cavities, defective fillings, periodontal or gum disease, or areas of dentin exposure. Your dentist must advise you of any limitations. These limitations can be addressed prior to whitening to allow for a more comfortable experience. When none of these conditions are present, most patients are able to wear their trays overnight. Doctor recommends 2 nights on, one night off for the best results.

HOW TO CLEAN AND CARE FOR CUSTOM WHITENING TRAYS After removing your trays, a cotton swab (Q-tips) is the best for removing most of the gel residue. Do not use hot water as it may cause your tray to lose its shape. Before using the tray again, use one more cotton swab. The dried gel is easier to use.