Things You Should Know Before Booking An Appointment
Are you self-conscious because of stains on your teeth? Is your first instinct to hide your smile?
“Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.” These words by mindfulness guru Thich Nhat Hanh could not be more accurate. A beautiful smile will make you more confident.
Rather than hiding that beautiful smile, consider teeth whitening to simply improve it. Working with a teeth whitening dentist can change your smile for the better.
You probably have many questions, from “How to whiten teeth?” to “Should I whiten my teeth?” We’ve created a guide answering all your questions on teeth whitening in Ontario.
Before you call your dentist and book your teeth whitening appointment, keep these eight things in mind:
- Your teeth have pores
- Teeth whitening doesn’t damage your teeth
- Your teeth will be sensitive after the treatment
- Some stains are not as easy to remove
- Caps, veneers, fillings and intrinsic stains cannot be whitened
- Best to whiten teeth in the evening
- Not everyone’s teeth can be entirely white
- Whitening strips don’t brighten as well as a professional
Armed with this knowledge, you can talk to your dentist to find the best option for you. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Teeth Whitening and How Does It Work?
Your teeth get stained every time you eat. Coffee tea, pasta, and cigarettes increase the staining on your teeth.
Teeth whitening uses many different products like toothpaste, gels, and strips. These products contain tooth bleaches—either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.
The bleach breaks down the stains into smaller pieces, making the colours less concentrated. When you use these products consistently, they can remove these stains and leave your teeth looking brighter.
DIY vs. Dentist: Can You Whiten Your Teeth at Home?
DIY teeth whitening strips are low-cost and readily available online or in stores. But are whitening strips worth it? From all the reviews out there, you know that these products work.
But remember that they may not be as effective as going to a teeth whitening professional who can whiten your teeth up to eight shades. Strips only whiten one or two shades, so your teeth will not be as bright. But between sessions with a dentist, you can consider teeth whitening at home.
Whitening Techniques
There are different whitening techniques, from bleaches to strips. Each has its pros and cons.
Bleaching
Bleaching involves putting a protective gel on your gums and then applying bleach to the teeth. They break down the stains on your teeth and reduce the concentration.
The good part is that the whitening solution at the dentist is usually more robust than those designed for home use. You may experience gum irritation, enamel damage, and tooth sensitivity if you have sensitive teeth. Working with expert professionals can reduce this risk.
Laser Whitening
Laser whitening uses hydrogen peroxide and then applies heat to activate the ingredients. Oxygen enters the tooth enamel and breaks up the stain. The treatments are fast and effective without causing you discomfort.
The downside is that the teeth whitening cost of this treatment is more expensive than others. It can also cause increased teeth sensitivity, but your dentist will be able to work with you to provide the best option for your teeth.
Whitening Strips and Gels
Whitening strips and gels are available in your local grocery store or pharmacy. They are cheap and easy to use. However, they are also less effective than going to a teeth whitening professional.
Things You Should Know About Teeth Whitening
Now that you know about the different techniques, you may have questions like, “Does teeth whitening damage teeth?” We are here to answer all those questions with these seven tips.
Your Teeth Have Pores
The first thing you need to know is that your teeth have pores, just like your skin. Every time you eat or drink or eat something, like coffee, red wine, or dark berries, the colour will stain your teeth.
Teeth Whitening Doesn’t Damage Your Teeth
Teeth whitening uses strong bleach, but it’s safe for your mouth. You may deal with mild irritation and sensitivity, but that will disappear after a few days.
Your Teeth Will Be Sensitive After the Treatment
If you have sensitive teeth, you may have some soreness or tenderness for a few days. When you work with an experienced dentist, they can make sure to alleviate any discomfort you may have.
Your Stains Are Not So Easy to Remove
Certain stains are not so easy to remove because they are embedded deep in the tooth. For example, tobacco stains are stubborn and will take longer to remove. The longer you have had the stain, the more difficult it will be to remove it.
What Cannot Be Whitened?
Caps and veneers cannot be whitened. Also, certain intrinsic stains within the teeth cannot be whitened. Intrinsic stains are generally caused by certain medications, damage to teeth, genetics, or advanced age.
When to Whiten Teeth?
It’s always better to whiten teeth at night because your teeth are more prone to staining right after whitening. This is when the pores on your teeth are open and can lead to more staining.
Also, remember that you should consider getting your teeth whitened at least 4 to 6 weeks before a big event so that your teeth will no longer be sensitive by the time the event starts.
Not Everyone’s Teeth Become Completely White
Not everyone’s teeth become entirely white following a teeth whitening session. Your genetics and natural colour play an essential role in how white your teeth will get. Your dentist will work to remove the stains that have accumulated over time.
How to Keep Your Teeth White After Treatment
Teeth whitening is not permanent. They can last about a month, but you’ll start to see staining again. You can keep your teeth brighter for longer by avoiding foods that stain your teeth, like red wine, tea and coffee.
The Takeaway
Teeth whitening is vital to your social image and confidence. Choosing the right option for you is crucial. Working with the right team can help reduce the risks and maintain your brighter smile for longer.
Are you looking for the best teeth whitening experts? Look no further and contact us today. You won’t be disappointed by our patient-focused approach, relaxing environment and state-of-the-art technology to get your teeth looking their best.