What is Teeth Whitening?
As we age, our teeth naturally darken as they become stained and discoloured, both inside the tooth and on the surface. Many factors can cause the discolouration of your teeth, including:
- Dental hygiene habits
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Dental trauma, including cracks, nerve damage, and enamel erosion
- Consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks (e.g., coffee, red wine)
Professional teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to whiten and brighten your smile. The process is simple and non-invasive and can change the colour of your natural teeth by targeting and removing stains.
Our dentists at Mill Woods Town Centre Dental Clinic can help determine if teeth whitening is right for you.
Treatment Options To Fit Your Lifestyle
Choose between in-office or take-home teeth whitening — it's your choice.
We aim to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile on your terms. Choose a professional session in our office with our dental team or a personalized take-home kit. Either option sets you on the path to your new smile!
What are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. Having a brighter smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Additionally, taking care of your oral health can have an impact on your overall health and well-being.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Our dentists apply a peroxide-based gel during teeth whitening treatments. This gel breaks down the molecules that cause stains, potentially leading to a whiter, more radiant smile. The gel is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and generally safe for use.
Every smile suits different levels of whitening. Your dentist will assist you in selecting the level of whitening that best complements you.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our dental clinic, our dentists offer a teeth whitening option that aims to safely, efficiently, and effectively whiten your teeth. First, a barrier is applied around your gums to protect them, and then a thin layer of whitening gel is applied to each tooth. Upon successful completion of your treatment, your teeth should appear visibly whiter.
Personalized Take-Home Teeth Whitening
You can also achieve a whiter and brighter smile at home by following our at-home whitening process. If you choose the take-home whitening option, we make impressions of your mouth and create custom whitening trays. You apply a whitening gel to these trays and wear them according to the directions for use. At the end of the treatment period, you should notice that your teeth appear visibly whiter!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at Mill Woods Town Centre Dental Clinic.
-
How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
Whitening is not permanent. Beverages such as coffee and wine, and certain foods, such as those that contain turmeric, can stain the teeth. Depending on diet, the effects of whitening may last longer for some people than others. If you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine, you may just desire a touch-up after one year or so.
-
Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of teeth whitening.
-
Does teeth whitening make teeth more sensitive?
One short-term side effect of teeth whitening may be sensitivity. For most patients, this fades away within a few days following a whitening session. To minimize any discomfort, we recommend that you use an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before treatment, and for at least two weeks following your treatment.
-
Do teeth whitening products work on all stains?
Typically, brown, and yellow-coloured stains respond best to teeth whitening treatments. Some stains tend not to respond to whitening treatments at all. If having a whiter smile is important to you but your teeth have non-responsive stains, your dentist may recommend other cosmetic treatments such as dental crowns or veneers that may be a better fit for you.
-
Does teeth whitening work on dental restorations?
Unfortunately not. Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth and will not work on existing dental restorations such as dental crowns or veneers. If crowns or veneers are part of your treatment plan, teeth whitening should take place before you receive your dental restorations.
-
Will teeth whitening damage my tooth enamel?
When used under the supervision of a dentist, teeth whitening is unlikely to damage your dental enamel. Always consult with your dentist to learn to use teeth whitening products safely. If you experience pain, sensitivity, or discomfort anywhere in your mouth, let your dentist know immediately.