We have made significant progress as human beings over the past few centuries. We have learned how to minimize a wide variety of sicknesses and manage others. At the same time, we have been able to increase our quality of life impressively over the past 1000 years. Many advancements came about with the advent of vehicles, helicopters, and other devices. We can quickly connect with each other cost-effectively with the internet and the world wide web. Many of us feel as if our basic level needs are met.

That is where we start to focus on higher-level concepts such as the sense of self-worth, confidence, self-esteem, and similar matters.

This is where we can focus on aspects such as grooming, eating well to optimize for certain physical characteristics, and spending time at the dental office and other spaces to take care of ourselves.

One simple way that we can account for more confidence is with tooth whitening or whitening treatment. Sure, there are several whitening treatment options that can bring about a brighter smile. When it comes to tooth whitening or tooth bleaching for your tooth, what should you do?

Which treatments will protect your tooth enamel? Which one will effectively reduce yellow teeth and account for sensitive teeth?

Want to make your teeth sparkling white? You’ve come to the right place. We will tell you all you need to know about teeth whitening.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is the process of making your teeth white. There are many systems and products to choose from. You may notice that there are whitening gel options, whitening toothpastes, and other teeth whitening options.

You can choose to apply these systems and products on your own or go to a dentist.

Whether you are looking at bleaching teeth for surface stains, tooth discoloration, or brown teeth, it is best to learn as much as you can when looking at a potential whitening treatment or solution.

There are many reasons why people opt for teeth whitening. However, the benefits are always the same. Teeth whitening can help you:

  • Create a bright and beautiful smile
  • Boost self-confidence
  • Hide stains from tobacco usage
  • Improve your overall appearance

Teeth whitening is for everyone as long as they have healthy, unfilled teeth and gums. Those who have had issues with their teeth should see a dentist at Edmonton Smiles before starting any teeth whitening procedures. It is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. If you are looking for professional teeth solutions, then you should certainly consult with our dental professionals.

Teeth whitening at home

Making your teeth white and bright with at-home teeth whitening products is easy. There are many products to choose from, such as:

  • Rinses
  • Chewing gum
  • Toothpaste
  • Gels
  • Strips

If you have no issues whatsoever with your teeth, you can try out some of these products on your own. If you’ve experienced or are currently dealing with teeth issues, you should talk to your dentist, especially if:

  • Your teeth are sensitive
  • you’ve carried out dental restorations on your teeth
  • You have a dark tooth or teeth
  • You have lots of filling

At-home whitener products contain 10% to 20% peroxides, typically carbide peroxide. Use a product with a mid-range peroxide level. If you want better results and the product doesn’t give any side effects, you can go higher. You should also discuss your specific needs with a dentist.

Our professionals at Edmonton Smiles can ensure to provide you with a comprehensive solution that you can use to brighten teeth as efficiently as possible.

Whitening toothpaste

Toothpastes generally remove stains, among other functions. Toothpastes with extra stain removal properties can cost anywhere from $1 to $20.

However, whitening toothpastes only whiten the teeth by about one shade. You will need prescription-strength whitening to make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.

Whitening strips and gels

Whitening strips and gels should be applied based on the producer’s instructions. Whitening gels are applied directly to the teeth’ surface, while whitening strips are invincible strips that contain whitening gels. Initial results may be evident in a few days, but it can take up to four months before you see the final results.

Whitening rinses

Rinses work like mouthwashes as they also freshen your breath and prevent dental plaque and gum disease from occurring. However, they also contain whitening ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide to help whiten your teeth.

Rinses are not as effective as strips and gels and may require up to 12 weeks before you see your desired result. After using the rinse, you can brush your teeth with whitening toothpaste for better results.

Tray-based teeth whiteners

A Tray-based tooth whitener is a mouth guard-like tray filled with a peroxide-based gel. You typically need to wear the tray for a couple of hours daily or every hour of the day until you achieve your desired level of whitening.

You can buy a tray-based tooth whitener from the pharmacy for about $30 or spend $150 to $600 for a tailor-made tray from your dentist.

Safety Tips for At-Home Teeth Whitening

  • Follow the instructions on the label
  • Avoid acidic drinks and beverages for a few hours after applying the product
  • If you feel any pain or sensation over a period, discontinue the treatment and report to a dentist

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is the fastest, safest, and most effective way to whiten your teeth. Your dentist will apply teeth whitening products directly to your teeth using heat, laser, or any particular light.

You can start seeing dramatic results after the first appointment. But you usually need a few appointments before you get the final result.

How Long Do Whitening Effects Last?

Teeth whitening does not last forever. Someone of the factors that can cause whiteness to fade include:

  • Condition of the teeth
  • Degree of exposure to food and beverages that cause staining
  • The type of whitening product used

Here are some tips to keep you keep your teeth bright for as long as possible:

  1. Avoid or reduce intake of food and beverages that cause staining. These include wine, carbonated drinks, berries, sauces, strongly colored foods, and sports drinks.
  2. Rinse or brush after consuming food and beverages that cause staining
  3. Practice proper oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing daily.
  4. Consume calcium-rich foods
  5. Cut out tobacco completely
  6. Check-in regularly with your dentist

Remove Surface Stains with Edmonton Smiles

You can get your teeth whitened if you have healthy teeth and gums and no related medical or dental issues. It pays to have a dentist perform them for you, but you can also use at-home whitening products to get similar results.

You should discontinue any product if you feel pain or any strong sensation in your mouth.

If you are looking to learn more about the whitening process and how our whitening solution can make a difference in your life, reach out to our team at Edmonton Smiles today. We are pleased to help new dental patients recover from stained teeth and get back to a more natural teeth state.

Contact us today.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry