The majority of vital bleaching for patients is done with the "at-home" tray technique. A flexible plastic tray is made that exactly fits your teeth. A peroxide containing solution is placed in the trays and the trays are worn for a period of time each day for two to three weeks. The amount of time worn relates to the type of peroxide solution used and the intensity and location of the stain. Bleaching is the most cost-effective of esthetic dental procedures and can last indefinitely with periodic touch-ups. The safest most effective bleaching systems are those done under the supervision of your dentist.

Enamel bonding is the art and science of applying tooth colored epoxy-like filling materials to specially prepared tooth surfaces. The materials harden when exposed to intense blue light and when polished resemble enamel. Bonding materials, called composite resins, can cover all or part of the tooth, they are softer than the enamel or dentin they are repairing and are subject to fracture or wear. Some repair may be necessary in the future.

Laminate veneers are usually porcelain, cover most of the front surface of the anterior teeth and are bonded to place with flowable composite resins. Veneers can beautifully enhance worn, shortened, stained teeth and are usually done in pairs or multiples of two to maintain a high esthetic tooth shape and color match. Because they are porcelain, they last longer than bonding but are crafted in a laboratory like crowns - so they are more costly than bonding.