Teeth Whitening in Mill Woods in Mill Woods, Edmonton
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
The natural process of aging can result in many changes, this includes changes to our teeth. Our teeth naturally darken as we age due to staining, both inside the tooth and on the surface, from everyday wear and tear. Many factors can cause the discolouration of your teeth, including
- Foods and beverages like coffee and red wine
- Smoking
- Dental hygiene upkeep
- Accidents
Professional teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to alter your smile. The process is simple, non-invasive, and can change the colour of your natural tooth by targeting and removing stains which can result in a brighter smile and more confidence in yourself.
The team at Southwood Dental can help you determine if whitening your teeth is right for you.
Treatment Options That Suit Your Lifestyle
Freedom to choose between in-office or at-home teeth whitening.
We are here to help you get the bright smile that you desire, on your terms. That's why we offer two treatment options – in our office with our dental team, or a personalized at-home teeth whitening process. Either way, you will be on your way to a new confident smile.
The Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Whether you are meeting someone for the first time or greeting an old friend, one of the first things that most people do is smile. Having a brighter smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Additionally, taking care of your oral health can have an impact on your overall health and well-being.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Our dentists use a peroxide-based gel in teeth whitening treatments. This gel breaks down stain molecules, which can result in a whiter, brighter-looking smile. The peroxide gel is non-toxic, and non-allergenic and offers a safe way of altering your smile.
Different shades of white suit different people. Your dentist will be able to help you determine the shade that works best for you.
In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening
Our dental team can offer a teeth whitening option in-office that can safely, efficiently, and effectively whiten your teeth. How does it work? Your dentist will first apply a barrier to help protect your gums throughout the process, and then a thin layer of whitening gel is applied to each tooth. Upon successful completion of your treatment, your teeth will be visibly lighter and brighter.
Personalized At-Home Teeth Whitening
You can also achieve a whiter and brighter smile at home using our take-home whitening kits that will be made for your unique needs. If you choose the take-home whitening option, we make impressions of your mouth and create custom whitening trays. You apply a whitening gel to these trays and wear them according to the directions for use. At the end of the treatment period, you should also see a noticeable difference in the brightness of your smile.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at Southwood Dental.
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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
Regardless of the teeth whitening method that you choose, whitening is not permanent. Beverages such as coffee and wine, and certain foods, such as those that contain turmeric, can stain the teeth. Depending on diet, the effects of whitening may last longer for some people than others. If you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine, then you may only require a yearly touch-up.
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Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Unfortunately, dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of professional at-home or in-office teeth whitening.
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Does teeth whitening make teeth more sensitive?
For some patients, one short-term side effect of teeth whitening may be sensitivity. Typically, this fades away within a few days following a whitening session. To minimize any discomfort, we recommend that you use an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before treatment, and continue using it for at least two weeks following your treatment.
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Do teeth whitening products work on all stains?
Typically, brown, and yellow-coloured stains respond best to teeth whitening treatments. There will be some stains that cannot be removed or lightened using teeth whitening. If having a whiter smile is important to you but your teeth have non-responsive stains, your dentist may recommend other cosmetic treatments such as dental crowns or veneers that may be a better fit for you.
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Does teeth whitening work on dental restorations?
Unfortunately not. Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth and will be unable to lift stains that are on existing dental restorations such as dental crowns or veneers. If crowns or veneers are part of your treatment plan, teeth whitening should take place before you receive your dental restorations.
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Will teeth whitening damage my tooth enamel?
When used under the supervision of a qualified dentist, teeth whitening is very unlikely to damage your dental enamel. You should always discuss your cosmetic dental decisions with your dentist to ensure you are using any teeth whitening products safely. If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort anywhere in your mouth, let your dentist know right away. Regardless of the cause, your dentist will be able to help you get to the bottom of it.