Is teeth whitening suitable for me?
Teeth whitening is generally a safe and effective treatment to improve the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence. Results can vary from person to person and generally works best on yellow/brown stains compared to gray stains. Treatment is not recommended for anyone under 18 years of age, pregnant or breastfeeding, or if gum disease is present. A consultation at the beginning of your session will take place to ensure you are a candidate of a teeth whitening treatment.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening treatments under a trained professional significantly reduces the risk of damage to tooth enamel and gums, and also reduces the chance of tooth sensitivity or root damage by using legitimate whitening products and procedures. You take the risk of seriously harming your teeth by obtaining teeth whitening from someone who is not professionally trained.
What are the side effects of teeth whitening?
It's normal to experience some tooth sensitivity after a whitening treatment. This is temporary and usually last 1-3 days. Over the counter pain medication can be taken and dental products can be offered to help reduce symptoms. Using a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth is recommended before and after you undergo a teeth whitening treatment. You may also experience gum irritation which can happen if the whitening product gets onto your gums during the treatment. You may also experience white spots on the gums because of this as well, but this is also temporary and will resolve very quickly.
How long does a treatment take?
A teeth whitening session takes one hour to complete for the best results.
How white will my teeth get?
The results will depend on each individual and the extent of their discoloration and condition of their teeth. Clients can generally see a difference of 5-10 shades whiter after just one session. Results can be maintained for up to a year with proper dental hygene and refraining from dark colored food/drinks in your diet after treatment. Whitening does not change the color of dental bonding/composite or any non-natural tooth restoration, including dental crowns, bridges, and veneers.
What do I need to do after treatment?
It is crucial that you avoid food and drinks that can stain your teeth within at least the first 48 hours after your teeth whitening treatment, as your teeth are susceptible to absorbing new stains. You should also refrain from smoking for as long as possible.
The following tips will help you to maintain your new, bright, white smile:
- Avoid foods and drinks such as coffee, dark teas, red white, red pasta sauce, soy sauce, berries, etc. for at least the first 48 hours. If you must drink any of these liquids such as coffee, avoid letting it come in contact with the surface of your teeth by using a straw.
- Avoid using colored toothpaste and mouth wash for 48 hours.
- Avoid smoking, it causes heavy staining and discoloration to your teeth.
- Avoid acidic foods such as lemons since they weaken the enamel.
- Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist, while also maintaining proper oral hygiene at home, to help prevent staining and discoloration. Also, to keep your teeth healthy.