The many benefits of teeth whitening justify why it’s such a popular cosmetic treatment, and most people whiten their teeth for aesthetic reasons. Whiter teeth not only make your smile brighter, but they can also make you look younger. If you have been shy about smiling wide or laughing because of yellowing or discolored teeth, then imagine the confidence you will have after a successful teeth whitening procedure by Aspen Dental Care in SW Calgary!
Teeth Whitening in SW Calgary
Teeth whitening is becoming one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, and it might be the simplest and most effective technique to improve the appearance of your smile. It can significantly whiten your teeth by removing stains and discoloration from cigarettes, coffee, tea, or red wine. Also, as we age, our teeth become yellower. As a result, having your teeth whitened may be the ideal way to enhance your smile.
Teeth whitening treatments can help you attain a sparkling natural smile by reversing the aging process and discoloration. Treatment can lighten teeth by up to ten shades in a single consultation and is almost painless. There are several methods for whitening teeth that can be used at home or in less than one hour in Aspen Dental Care in SW Calgary by laser.
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Teeth Whitening Methods
01. Internal bleaching
Internal bleaching is used to lighten tooth discoloration following a root canal. This can be avoided by sealing off the bleaching chemical inside the tooth and refilling it every few weeks until the appropriate shade is obtained.
02. In-office bleaching
The whitening shade guides are used to measure tooth color. These shades determine the effectiveness of the whitening procedure, which may vary from two to seven shades. These shades may be reached after a single in office appointment, or may take longer, depending on the individual. The effects of bleaching can last for several months, but may vary depending on the life style of the patient. In-chair whitening is faster and more effective in comparison to the take home bleaching options.
03. At home service: Strips
At home tooth whitening products are available from dentists or over the counter (OTC). OTC products can be used for milder cases of tooth staining. For plastic whitening strips, the strips contain a thin layer of peroxide gel and are shaped to fit the buccal/labial surface of teeth. The strips are typically applied twice daily for 30 minutes for 14 days.
04. At home service: Rinses
Whitening rinses work by reaction of the oxygen sources such as hydrogen peroxide within the rinse and the chromogens on or within the tooth. It is recommended to use twice a day, rinsing for one minute. to see an improvement in shade color, it can take up to three months.
05. At home service: Toothpaste
Whitening toothpastes are different to regular toothpastes in that they contain higher amounts of abrasives and detergents to be more effective at removing tougher stains. Some whitening toothpastes contain low concentrations of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide which help lighten tooth color. With continuity of use over time, tooth color can lighten by one or two shades.
06. At home service: Tray-based
Tray-based teeth whitening is achieved by wearing a fitted tray containing carbamide peroxide bleaching gel over night or for two to four hours a day. If manufacturer’s instructions are followed, tooth whitening can occur within three days and lighten teeth by one or two shades. This type of tooth whitening is available over-the-counter and professionally from an oral health professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is teeth whitening procedure like?
During the consultation process, our dentists at Aspen Dental Care will determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening and if the procedure can achieve your individual cosmetic goals, the procedure begins by coating the teeth in a professional-grade whitening gel. This hydrogen peroxide-based gel is then activated by a special light or laser that encourages oxygen to enter the dentin and enamel, bleaching out stains and discoloration. The entire chair-side procedure can usually be completed within an hour, you can immediately return to your normal daily life with no downtime, and you can enjoy a whiter, brighter smile.
How is tooth sensitivity managed during teeth whitening treatment?
Prior to teeth whitening you can use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth to help prevent discomfort during treatment. The active ingredients in these toothpastes work by filling naturally-occurring microscopic holes in the tooth’s surface, which cause sensitivity. At the start of treatment a protective barrier is placed on the gums to prevent any irritation of the soft tissue, however, This usually does not protect against tooth sensitivity. If you have difficulty tolerating your treatment, our dentists at Aspen Dental Care in SW Calgary, can modify the intensity of the gel or shorten the duration of time your teeth are exposed to the activating light. Another option is to split your full treatment over two days to limit sensitivity.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
The longevity of your teeth whitening results depend on how you care for your teeth after treatment. To keep teeth white and bright it is important to avoid consuming staining beverages and foods when possible. If you drink coffee, have a glass of red wine, or eat dark barriers, you can help prevent stains from forming by rinsing your mouth or brushing soon after consumption. Use of Tobacco products is another habit that can create tooth discoloration, so you may want to consider quitting, cutting back, or using non-staining nicotine-based products instead. Also, our dentists at Aspen Dental Care in SW Calgary may be able to provide you with professional at-home whitening gel and custom trays to use as needed.
