Teeth whitening is a bleaching process that lightens discolouration of the teeth to create a whiter, brighter appearance.

Yes! Research and clinical studies show that whitening teeth with carbamide peroxide under the supervision of a dentist is safe for the teeth and gums. Many dentists consider teeth whitening the safest cosmetic procedure available today.

Coffee, tea, cola, tobacco, trauma to the tooth, nerve degeneration, tetracycline (antibiotic) staining, excessive fluoride, genetic and acquired illnesses and aging. 

Almost anyone, although there are some cases where the treatment may not be effective. In most cases yellow teeth can become white. Whitening might not be appropriate for patients with very sensitive teeth or gums, extreme tetracycline stains, or other resistant intrinsic stains. Our dentists will examine your teeth to determine if you are a candidate for whitening. Some people have visible fillings that are matched to the present shade of their teeth. Please note that whitening will not change the shade of these fillings to the new whiter shade of the teeth. Similarly, crowns and bridges that blend aesthetically to stained teeth might stand out unfavourably after whitening. Fillings, crowns, and bridges can be replaced after whitening to match the new shade of the teeth.

There are two ways to whiten teeth. The first method is done by you at home using a professional grade product prescribed by your dentist. In this approach a teeth whitening gel is placed in a thin bleaching tray that fits over your teeth. The tray is placed over the teeth either for about an hour during the day or overnight. This is done for ten to fourteen days. This approach gives you control over how white your teeth will be.

The second way is carried out in the dental office under the supervision of the dentist. A gel is applied to the teeth for fifteen minutes. This is repeated two to three times at the same appointment. The advantage of this method is that you will see the result the same day. A disadvantage is that it can increase tooth sensitivity due to the use of a stronger bleaching gel.

In both cases the active ingredient, carbamide peroxide, converts to hydrogen peroxide and water. The hydrogen peroxide enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching the discoloured parts of the teeth.

When done at home maximum results generally occur when the process is continued for 10 to 14 nights. In office whitening results are usually seen after one appointment. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth, the number of applications, and the duration of treatment.

Our dental team will provide you with instructions on how to care for your teeth following whitening. We will typically suggest avoiding certain acidic and sugary foods and drinks that can stain your teeth for at least 48 hours after you have completed whitening.
In addition, continue your at-home dental hygiene routine as normal – brush twice daily and floss once a day.
Regular dental and hygiene visits will help to maintain your beautiful new smile.

The teeth will always be lighter than they once were, but you might need a “touch-up” once or twice a year to maintain the whitest shade possible. To preserve the improvement, it is best to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco.

Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity to cold during the treatment. This can be avoided by using sensitivity toothpaste and usually disappears within one to three days. The process should be stopped if the sensitivity is severe.

If your teeth are already very sensitive
If there is root exposure
If you are or think you might be pregnant
If you are under the age of 16
If you have gum disease
If you are ill

Some people have visible fillings that are matched to the present shade of their teeth. Whitening will not change the shade of these fillings to the new whiter shade of the teeth.

Similarly, crowns and bridges that blend aesthetically to stained teeth might stand out unfavourably after whitening.

Fillings, crowns, and bridges can be replaced after whitening to match the new shade of the teeth.
It is important to know that whitening treatments can sometimes affect the enamel of your teeth if done improperly or too frequently. Overuse or misuse of whitening products can lead to enamel erosion, which can make teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity.