At Legacy Dental Clinic, teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that brightens and lightens teeth. Teeth whitening can be performed in the dental office or with take-home kits.
Teeth whitening can improve the appearance of teeth, but the procedure cannot change the actual color of the teeth. If you have teeth that are stained from trauma or medications, teeth whitening may not be able to completely whiten your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Professional Teeth Whitening
Whitening your teeth professionally is one of the easiest ways to achieve a brighter smile. In-office whitening treatment can be completed in about an hour, during which your dentist will first protect your gums and apply a shield to protect your lips, and then apply a bleaching gel to your teeth. After the gel is applied, it is then activated using a special light. Once the treatment is complete, your dentist will provide you with a take-home whitening kit you can use to keep your teeth looking bright.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
It’s important to choose an over-the-counter teeth whitening kit that is safe and effective. The safest and most effective teeth whitening kits are those with a 10% concentration or less of carbamide peroxide. Some of the most common over-the-counter teeth whitening strips are Crest Whitestrips and Colgate Whitening Strips. Other products include gels, pens, and whitening rinses.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
The teeth’s enamel layer is porous, and can easily absorb stain-causing bacteria and discolor the teeth.
Teeth whitening treatments usually contain some type of bleaching agent or chemical that whitens the teeth by removing these staining materials from the pores of the teeth. Bleaching agents may either be simply applied to the teeth, or they may be used in conjunction with a dental light to enhance their whitening effects.
How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?
Although it varies by patient, teeth whitening results can last anywhere from six months to a couple of years. The length of time that teeth whitening results last depends on the patient’s teeth and how much they’re exposed to staining products. In-office teeth whitening treatment typically lasts between one and two years. During this time, patients are advised to avoid foods and beverages that cause teeth stains, such as red wine, coffee, and tea.Patients may also benefit from whitening toothpaste, which can whiten teeth over time. Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, and eating a healthy, balanced diet can also prolong the results of teeth whitening treatment.
To learn more about the perks of teeth whitening, visit Legacy Dental Clinic at 4224 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada 060701, or call (825) 467-8888.