 Facts
About Tooth Whitening
Do you want a whiter, brighter smile? When we see a healthy smile,
we relate it to a healthy body and healthy lifestyle. A bright and
healthy smile can improve self-esteem and make you look younger
and full of life.
Why do I have stained teeth?
Stain can be surface stain or can be part of the enamel. Stains
can be caused by:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Coffee, tea, wine, deep coloured fruits and vegetables
- Aging
(our teeth also change as we age and may become more grey or yellow)
- Antibiotics (some antibiotics have been known to cause staining
– tetracycline)
- Too much fluoride at an early age can harm your teeth and cause
blotching or dental fluorosis
Many surface stains can be managed with careful brushing
and flossing
along with regular appointments for cleaning (scaling) by your dental
hygienist. Those stains that cannot be professionally cleaned
away might be candidates for tooth whitening.
Important things to know!
A white smile can look great but there are some things you should
know before you think of whitening your teeth:
- Crowns and fillings do not change colour with any whitening
techniques
- Some techniques do not whiten all of your teeth (i.e. whitening
strips)
- Your teeth and gums may become more sensitive when you whiten
- You should not whiten your teeth if you have gum disease or
tooth decay or dental erosion or you may have severe pain.
- You should understand all the directions for use
- This treatment is not suited for pregnant or breast feeding
women
- Some people develop allergies to the whitening gel
- Ask your dental professional if whitening will work for your
teeth
How long will the whitening effects last?
Whitening your teeth can look great at first but the natural colour
or stains on the teeth will come back. The first and brightest effect
will fade in 4-6 weeks or sooner if you smoke or eat and drink stain
causing foods. People often choose to re-whiten their teeth between
6 and 9 months following the first treatment.
Safety First
If you have chosen a method that you use at home there are some
important safety issues to note:
- Always follow the directions that you are given by your dental
hygienist, dentist or in the package you buy
- DO NOT swallow the gel or whitening strips
- DO NOT get the gel in your eyes
- Wash your hands before and after using
- Keep the gel tray clean and dry when not using
- If you get sensitive teeth, use the product every other day
- See your dental professional if you experience pain
Tooth Whitening Options
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