Teeth Whitening North York, ON
Over time, the darker tissue of your teeth, the dentin, can become exposed as the outer layer of enamel is worn away by the effects of aging or things like caffeine and tobacco. Teeth can become more absorbent and vulnerable to staining from food and other substances. Food particles are also naturally attracted to a tooth's enamel by a certain protein. Products like coffee and tea, berries and soy sauce are notorious for staining teeth.
Another type of stain—caused by traumatic injuries, medications, and fluorosis—actually begins inside the tooth; brushing and flossing don’t help.
Whitening Treatments
There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your dentist in North York, ON about the differences between professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening using over-the-counter solutions.
Professional whitening from a dentist is considered to be the most effective and safest method. At Parkwoods Dental, we offer both in-office whitening treatments and a take-home whitening option that you can use in the comfort of your own home.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes and you will be able to see results immediately.
At-Home Professional Whitening
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxy radicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike whitening strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional grade tray whitening generally takes 10-14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
Is professional teeth whitening right for me?
Professional whitening solutions are generally the most effective, but it's important to note that they are only effective on certain types of stains. For example, bleaching agents have a difficult time removing brownish or grayish stains. These products also are not as effective on pitted or badly discolored teeth, or on restorations such as crowns, bridges, bonding and tooth-colored fillings. In those situations, porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be a more appropriate solution for you. It's best to talk with your North York, ON dentist and they can help determine what the best treatment option would be for you.
Over the Counter Whitening Solutions
Paint-On Teeth Whiteners
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening products is commonly referred to as a “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over-the-counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth, and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth-whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.
Teeth Whitening Strips
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
