COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Top-Rated Teeth Whitening in Calgary
For many, bright white teeth are synonymous with youth and good dental health. Countless tooth whitening products are available in stores, from toothpaste and oral rinses to special whitening strips and trays that seem to offer professional results. Do any of these products work? How do they compare to whitening performed professionally by a dentist?
Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment that changes the color of natural tooth enamel, making it an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are several ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will dramatically whiten teeth. Since tooth whitening only affects natural enamel, it's necessary to have a dentist evaluate and possibly replace any old fillings, veneers, or similar restorations for a consistent appearance. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so that they will match the newly bleached teeth. Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for tooth whitening:
About the Tooth Whitening Process
The tooth whitening process usually requires two appointments with our dentist. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic trays. At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with a special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity while whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you stop bleaching. You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays from our dentist, and you should schedule regular appointments to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
The Duration of Tooth Whitening Results
The duration of your whitening results depends on several factors, ranging from the type of whitener used to your lifestyle habits. Having your teeth whitened will reduce stains, but it won't prevent new ones from forming. Both at-home and in-office whitening will last longer if you have good dental hygiene habits and keep your teeth clean.
If you use a whitening toothpaste, you may be able to extend the effects simply by continuing to use it. Some users who are sensitive to the ingredients may experience discomfort with prolonged use. Long-term use of whitening toothpaste may also thin tooth enamel. Some at-home products are considerably more effective than others.
Using whitening trays can give you long-lasting results. Combined with good oral hygiene, their effect may last as long as a year or more. In-office whitening will provide the longest-lasting results. This type of whitening may last from one to three years with proper oral hygiene. When it comes to whitening your teeth, in-office treatments offer the fastest, most permanent results. They will likely prove the safest as well, given that improper or prolonged use of at-home methods can lead to sensitivity and irritation.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Versus Professional Whitening
Teeth are generally white to begin with, but tooth enamel comes in many shades, which can make some feel that their teeth are not white enough. Whitening products have become increasingly popular over the years, and many are drawn to the idea of being able to whiten their teeth at home. The primary options available for whitening your teeth include:
Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste removes surface stains on the teeth and is the gentlest means of whitening. This makes it the best option for those with sensitive teeth. There are generally no adverse reactions because toothpaste whitens by polishing the teeth rather than using a bleaching agent. The downside to this type of gentle whitening is that toothpaste does not provide as noticeable a difference in the shade of your teeth. It also takes a long time to reach its full effect.
At-Home Whitening
At-home whitening kits can be purchased in many pharmacies and include methods such as whitening strips, trays, lights, rinses, and brushes. They generally contain peroxide, which reaches below the surface to lighten tooth enamel when used regularly over days or weeks. Whitening trays are filled with gel and then worn for a period of time, either during the day or overnight. When purchased in stores, the trays may be one-size-fits-all or available in large, medium, and small sizes. You may also work with your dentist to have custom trays made for you. This offers a more comfortable fit when using whitening agents.
Professional Whitening
Having your teeth professionally whitened at your dentist’s office can change the color of your teeth faster than other methods because the whiteners are stronger. The process takes about an hour, and your gums will be covered with a protective gel or thin sheet of rubber to protect them from the peroxide in the whitening agent. The process may also involve a light or a laser that is used alongside the peroxide. There is no downtime to this procedure, but your dentist will offer specific aftercare instructions — like avoiding dark drinks like coffee or wine — to help preserve your results.
Ask your Dentist about a Professional Whitening Treatment
Our dentist at Rocky Ridge Dental offers professional whitening services to improve the aesthetics of your smile. To help maintain your whitening results, we also offer complimentary services such as cleanings, porcelain crowns, and other dental restorations. Reach out to our team and schedule your appointment today.
