TEETH WHITENING

Layers of the tooth

We are born with sparkling white teeth, but due to the natural deterioration of the enamel (the outer part of your teeth) over time, the dentin layer underneath starts to show. This layer is naturally opaque and yellowish.

Layers of the tooth

Enamel is translucent and can sometimes crack, exposing dentin, or trap foreign debris contributing to discolouration.

Other factors that cause teeth to yellow:

  • Food and drinks

    Coffee, tea, and red wine are common culprits that produce teeth stains. Heavy pigments in these and other foods, called chromogens, can attach themselves to the enamel which causes discolouration.

  • Tobacco use

    Nicotine in tobacco turns yellow when it oxidizes. It combines with tar from cigarette smoke to stain the enamel yellow and brown.

  • Age

    Constant brushing and flossing naturally depletes the enamel over time, leaving the dentin exposed.

  • Medications

    Most pharmacists will let you know that certain medications can stain your teeth. Children that use the antibiotics doxycycline and tetracycline can experience discolouration of their adult teeth when they get older. 

  • Other factors

    Teeth grinding, teeth trauma, drug or chemical use can also contribute to discolouration.

Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening offers a fast, safe, and highly effective solution for achieving a brighter, more radiant smile. Performed by dental professionals, this treatment uses advanced whitening technology and stronger bleaching agents than over-the-counter products, ensuring noticeable results in just one visit. 


The process typically involves applying a protective gel to your gums and using a specially formulated whitening agent on your teeth, activated by a light to accelerate the whitening process. 


Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to enhance your smile, in-office whitening delivers immediate, long-lasting results that can make a significant difference in the appearance of your teeth.

How Long Does It Take?

The whole procedure takes roughly 40-60 minutes. However, everyone whitens differently and we must set realistic expectations. Sometimes multiple treatments are required to get to the desired shade (kind of like tanning). The goal is to get your teeth as white as the white colour in your eyes.

Safety and Side Effects

In-office teeth whitening is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a trained dental professional. While most patients experience no issues, some may experience mild side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, which are temporary and typically subside within a few hours to a day after the treatment. These side effects can be minimized with proper care and by following your hygienists post-op instructions. 


A desensitizer agent is also applied to your teeth at the end of the treatment to help with zings. The whitening agents used in-office are carefully monitored to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dental health, reducing the risk of any adverse reactions.

Maintenance

To maintain your brighter smile after in-office teeth whitening, it's important to follow a few simple steps.

  • Avoid consuming foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, for at least 24 to 48 hours following your treatment
  • Avoid overly acidic food and drinks
  • Avoid extremely hot and cold foods such as ice cream and popsicles for 24 hours
  • Regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing will help preserve your results
  • Depending on your lifestyle and habits, you may need occasional touch-ups to keep your smile bright. Your hygienist can recommend at-home whitening products (whitening pens or take-home kits) or schedule follow-up treatments if needed, ensuring that your smile stays stunning for as long as possible.
  • The whitening treatment is $85 when you book an exam, X-rays, and cleaning
  • $150 for touch-up within 60 days
  • The cost for whitening only, without a cleaning, is $230
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