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What is Professional 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.
As we get older, our teeth naturally darken as they become stained and discoloured, both inside the tooth and on the surface. Depending on your lifestyle and what you eat, this natural discolouration can quickly become very evident.
If you are bothered by darkened or stained teeth, the whitening process can be a way to lighten their natural colour in a safe, non-invasive manner. Although it may not entirely restore the colour of your teeth, it may help to lighten them.
Maintaining Your Whiter, Brighter Smile
To help ensure that the results of your teeth whitening procedure last as long as possible, it's important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home and attend regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Teeth Whitening Procedures
At Midtown Kelowna Dental, we offer two treatment options to whiten your teeth. Your dentist can help you decide which option is best for you.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our office, we offer a teeth whitening option that can 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 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 this option, we will make impressions of your mouth and create custom whitening trays. You will 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 Midtown Kelowna Dental.
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What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
You may find that you experience an overall boost in confidence. 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.
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What causes teeth to stain or darken?
A number of factors can increase surface stains and darken the appearance of teeth, including:
- Yellow, brown stained teeth
- Normal wear of the outer layer of the tooth
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during childhood)
- Stained teeth due to medications (e.g. tetracycline), lifestyle factors (e.g. smoking) and diet (e.g. consuming dark beverages such as coffee and tea)
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How does teeth whitening work?
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 very safe to use.
Different shades of white suit different people. Your dental professional will help you choose the right shade for your teeth.
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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.
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Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of teeth whitening.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
