If you're considering whitening your teeth you may be wondering how the procedure actually works In this post, our Calgary dentists shed light on how the teeth whitening process brightens your smile.
What is teeth whitening?
Our teeth naturally get darker as we age. This gradual change in colour can be a side effect of lifestyle factors such as drinking dark beverages like tea, coffee or alcohol, taking certain medications, smoking and general wear and tear from years of use.
Professional teeth whitening treatments use peroxide-based bleaching agents to lighten the colour of your teeth and reduce the appearance of surface stains. As the peroxide breaks down, oxygen acts on tooth enamel and creates the whitening effect.
Professional Teeth Whitening at Our Office
Professional teeth whitening in the dental office is a popular treatment for many patients, as it is typically more efficient than the at-home treatment options.
At our Calgary office, we offer Zoom! laser teeth whitening. Zoom! is a one-time dental bleaching treatment that makes use of laser and lights. The whitening solution is applied directly onto the surface of your teeth and then a dental light activates the whitening solution which assists in reducing discolouration from your tooth enamel.
We also provide you with a custom bleaching tray as well as a touch-up kit you can use from home.
Professional Teeth Whitening At Home
If you prefer to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home, we offer custom whitening trays and specific instructions about how to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home.
To begin, you’ll first need to visit the dentist so an impression of your teeth can be taken in order to create custom whitening trays to fit your smile. You’ll use these trays at home to apply the whitening solution yourself.
Once your trays are ready, you will return to the dentist’s office to confirm they are a good fit. Next, you’ll be sent home with the trays, the whitening solution, and clear instructions from your dentist.
At home, you’ll wear the trays for about 30 minutes every day for approximately 2 weeks, until you achieve the desired level of whiteness. Then, you can use the whitening solution to touch up your smile every 6 months or so.