Whitening Your Smile
As we age, our teeth naturally darken and become stained and discoloured, both inside the tooth and on the surface. Many factors can cause tooth discolouration, including:
- Foods and beverages like coffee and red wine
- Smoking
- Dental hygiene upkeep
- Accidents
Professional teeth whitening can be a safe and effective method of whitening your smile. The procedure is simple and non-invasive, and it can alter the colour of your natural teeth by identifying and removing stains.
The team at Thompson River Dental can help you determine if whitening your teeth is right for you.
Treatment Options To Fit Your Lifestyle
In-office or take-home teeth whitening... it's your choice.
Our goal is to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile, your way. That's why we offer 2 treatment options – in our office with our dental team, or a personal process you can do at home. Either way, you'll be on your way to your new smile!
What are the Benefits of Whitening?
One of the first things people notice about you is your smile. So a brighter, whiter smile may boost your self-esteem and confidence.
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, non-allergenic, and safe to use.
People respond differently to different shades of white. Your dentist will assist you in selecting the appropriate shade for your teeth.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our location, we offer a teeth whitening option that can safely, efficiently, and effectively whiten your teeth. How does it work? First, a barrier is applied around your gums to protect them, and then a thin layer of whitening gel is applied to each tooth. Upon successful completion of your treatment, your teeth can appear visibly whiter.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
You can also achieve a whiter and brighter smile at home by following our at-home whitening process. 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 notice that your teeth appear visibly whiter!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at Thompson River Dental.
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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
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, you may just desire a touch-up after one year or so.
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Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of teeth whitening.
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Does teeth whitening make teeth more sensitive?
One short-term side effect of teeth whitening may be sensitivity. For most patients, 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 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. Some stains tend not to respond to whitening treatments at all. 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 not work 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. Always consult 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. Even if it’s not related to whitening, they will be able to help.