Good to Know Teeth Whitening Facts and Tips

Do you also want to achieve a brighter shade for your teeth?

Teeth whitening has been a popular dental procedure ever since it was first established. If you’re also interested in teeth whitening, it is important to establish realistic expectations regarding the results. You may think that a brilliant white smile is natural, but these picture-perfect teeth are far from reality.

Teeth can come in different shades, and some people are born with darker or yellowish hues in their teeth. Aside from that, there are also several other factors that can cause teeth to darken, such as your choice of daily beverages.

Let’s talk more about teeth-whitening facts and tips in this post.

1. Whiter Teeth Aren’t Necessarily Healthier

   Having white teeth isn’t enough of an indication that you have good oral health. Before getting a tooth whitening procedure, your dentist will first examine the condition of your teeth and your general health. You may need more procedures, such as a dental hygiene cleaning or deep cleaning, before you can get your teeth whitened.

2. You May Need More Than One Session to Achieve Your Desired Tooth Shade

   Stains can build up on the surfaces of your teeth more easily or faster, depending on your diet and lifestyle. High intake of pigmented beverages and smoking can cause teeth to appear darker. Expect to need more than one session to see the changes you desire in your smile. If you want to make your teeth several shades lighter, achieving these results can take days or months. Your dentist can educate you further on what you can expect throughout the procedure. During this time, protecting your teeth against substances or habits that can affect the results of your teeth-whitening sessions helps.

3. Not All Teeth Can Be Whitened

   Teeth whitening doesn’t take effect on dental work such as crowns and veneers. That’s why it’s important to start your teeth whitening journey with a comprehensive oral examination to know which option will work best for you. Artificial teeth or dental restorations don’t have pores and are already custom-made to match the shade of your natural teeth. That’s why they resist bleaching agents. If you’re planning to get crowns and veneers, consider getting your teeth whitened first for a uniform appearance.

4. Whitening Trays Aren’t Equal

   The active ingredient in bleaching agents is often hydrogen peroxide, which is effective in brightening the shade of your teeth. But know that not all whitening kits or trays are the same. Ready-made, over-the-counter, and mass-produced options at pharmacies or grocery stores will not offer the results you’ll get from dentist-administered products or services. The latter are customized for your teeth, including the whitening trays, if you choose at-home whitening. These kits will fit snugly and comfortably in your mouth because they’re specially made for you. All the nooks and crannies of your teeth will be covered, giving you consistent and even results.

5. Teeth Whitening Can Cause Your Teeth to Become Sensitive

   Tooth sensitivity can occur after getting your teeth whitened. But the gravity can be different, especially if you already have sensitive teeth before getting teeth whitening. The sensitivity should be temporary and go away on its own. Active ingredients in bleaching agents can dehydrate teeth and keep them from insulating the nerves of teeth as they normally do. This can lead to sensitivity when teeth are exposed to sudden changes in temperature.

6. Teeth Whitening Results Aren’t Permanent, but They Can Last Long

   Teeth whitening doesn’t last forever and will need touch ups eventually, but it can last for several years. It’s also possible to keep your teeth whiter for longer by avoiding teeth-staining foods and beverages and habits that can cause discoloration, such as smoking. The schedule for your touch ups can also vary depending on how well you care for your teeth.

Learn More About Your Teeth Whitening Options in Southeast Calgary, AB

If you’re in Southeast Calgary, Alberta, and interested in professional teeth whitening, contact us at Embrace Dental Care. Let’s start with an initial consultation and assessment to find out which dental procedure will offer the results you’re looking forward to. Take the first step to transforming your smile today.