Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is faster, more effective, and longer lasting that treatments you find over the counter. As we age, our teeth darken over time. We can brighten your teeth by five to ten shades in a single session, but maintaining good oral hygiene and steering away from certain foods and beverages will help keep any future whitening services to a minimum. We may also prescribe some medication for you to use at home that helps the whitening process.
In-office Whitening
In office whitening procedures can be carried out if a faster more noticeable whitening result is required, compared to slower at home bleaching systems. In-office whitening involves the use of stronger bleaching agents which are only to be used by trained professionals. These stronger bleaching agents require specific equipment and protections that can only be carried out in the office setting.
Procedure:
- through cleansing and polishing of teeth
- application of gum protectant
- application of whitening agent
- whitening agent is laser/ light activated
- whitening agent is left on teeth for several minutes
- teeth and gums are rinsed
Post-procedure Care
In order to maintain the lighter color of your teeth and reduce some of the post bleaching side effects that may occur, such as sensitivity, it is recommended that specific toothpaste be used and several habits and foods be avoided.
Things to avoid:
- tobacco products
- coffee and tea
- red wine
- food colouring
- any bright coloured drink
The dentist will advise each individual on the suitability of tooth whitening depending on the health of their teeth and stage of any pre-existing restorative treatment.