Your Edmonton Invisalign® Provider
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Over time, teeth can naturally darken as stains and discolouration develop both on the surface and within the tooth.
Everyday habits such as enjoying coffee or red wine, smoking, and inconsistent oral hygiene can also contribute to changes in tooth colour.
Professional teeth whitening is be a safe, non-invasive option that can help brighten your smile by targeting certain types of stains and enhancing the natural shade of your teeth.
Many people choose teeth whitening to refresh their appearance for special occasions, to feel more confident in social or professional settings, or simply to enjoy a smile that looks its best.
The team at Southgate Dental Centre can help you determine if whitening your teeth is right for you, and what your goal shade should be.
Dental Cleanings for a Healthier Smile
To help maintain your whiter teeth, be consistent with your daily oral hygiene routine and be sure to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.
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.
Plus, when you feel better about how your smile looks, you'll be more motivated to take care of it! This can have a positive impact on your oral health and overall wellbeing.
In-Office Teeth Whitening with Zoom!
During a Zoom! teeth whitening session, your dentist first covers your gums with a protective barrier before applying a body-safe hydrogen peroxide gel to your teeth. A special light is then used to activate the whitening gel, which is left to process for about 15 minutes while you relax, watch TV, listen to music, or use an in-office iPad. After the gel is removed, a fluoride gel is applied to help reduce potential sensitivity.
Zoom! whitening typically involves up to three 15-minute applications per session, which may help enhance the natural brightness of your teeth. As a result, each session usually takes less than an hour. It is recommended that patients schedule a dental exam and cleaning before each whitening session to ensure the best possible results.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at Southgate Dental Centre.
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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening isn’t permanent, and everyday foods and drinks like coffee, wine, or even turmeric can cause staining over time. How long your results last can vary depending on your diet and habits. With a consistent oral hygiene routine, many people find they only need a touch-up after about a year.
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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?
Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity after teeth whitening. For most people, this usually fades within a few days. To help reduce any discomfort, we recommend using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before your treatment and continuing for at least two weeks afterward.
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Do teeth whitening products work on all stains?
Teeth whitening tends to work best on brown and yellow stains, while some types of discolouration may not respond as well. If achieving a whiter smile is important to you but your teeth have stains that don’t respond to whitening, your dentist can discuss other cosmetic options, such as dental crowns or veneers, that might be a better fit for your smile goals.
- Does teeth whitening work on dental restorations?
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Will teeth whitening damage my tooth enamel?
When used as directed and under the supervision of a qualified dentist, teeth whitening is very unlikely to harm your dental enamel. It’s always a good idea to consult your dentist to make sure any whitening products are being used safely. If you notice any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort in your mouth, be sure to let your dentist know.