Why Teeth Darken & How to Stop It
As we age, our teeth can darken as they become stained and discoloured, both inside the tooth and on the surface. Some factors that can contribute to staining include the foods and beverages that we consume, as well as other lifestyle factors such as smoking and neglecting oral hygiene. Teeth whitening from your dentist can help remove some of the staining that these factors create.
Professional teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to help whiten and brighten your smile. The process is simple, non-invasive, and can change the colour of your natural tooth by targeting and removing stains.
Our dentists use a peroxide-based gel in teeth whitening treatments. This gel breaks down stain molecules, which can result in a whiter, brighter-looking smile. The peroxide gel is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and should be safe to use.
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. Teeth whitening treatments can help it shine. Additionally, many of our patients find that having whiter teeth makes them feel more inclined to keep up with their oral hygiene so that they can maintain their results for longer.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our dental office, we offer a teeth whitening option that can safely, efficiently, and effectively whiten your teeth. How does it work? 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 can 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 take 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 Big Smiles Dental.
-
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 qualified dentist, teeth whitening is very unlikely to damage your dental enamel. Always consult with your dentist to ensure you are using any teeth whitening products safely. If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort anywhere in your mouth, let your dentist know right away. Even if it’s not related to whitening, they will be able to help.