Teeth Whitening
Dentist For Teeth Whitening in Scarborough, Ontario
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment designed to lighten the appearance of your natural teeth and reduce certain types of discoloration.
Before beginning any whitening treatment, it is important to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Your dentist can evaluate the cause of the discoloration and help determine whether whitening is an appropriate option for you.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening can be an appealing option for patients looking to refresh the appearance of their smile.
Some of the benefits include:
- A brighter-looking smile
- A non-invasive cosmetic treatment
- An accessible way to improve the appearance of your teeth
- Treatment options that can be tailored to your individual
What Can Cause Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth can become darker or stained for a variety of reasons. Common causes include:
- Coffee and tea
- Red wine and other deeply coloured foods and beverages
- Tobacco use
- Natural changes associated with aging
- Certain medications
- Trauma or changes within a tooth
The cause of discoloration is important because not every type of staining responds to whitening in the same way.
Whitening Options
There are many whitening products and treatments available, ranging from products purchased over the counter to professional treatments provided under the supervision of a dentist.
Whitening products generally work in one of two ways: they either help remove surface stains or contain ingredients capable of changing the colour of the tooth itself.
Surface Whiteners
Whitening toothpastes and similar products can help reduce some surface stains through gentle polishing ingredients.
These products can be useful for maintaining a cleaner-looking smile, but their effect is generally limited to stains on the outside of the teeth. They are not a replacement for regular professional dental cleanings or treatments designed to change the underlying colour of a tooth.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening treatments are designed to address discoloration beyond simple surface staining.
Your dentist can assess the type and severity of your discoloration and recommend an appropriate approach based on your teeth, existing dental work, and overall oral health.
What to Expect After a Professional Teeth Whitening Appointment
Before whitening, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and gums and discuss your goals.
The appropriate whitening method depends on factors such as the cause of the discoloration, how many teeth are affected, and the condition of your teeth.
It is also important to understand that fillings, crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations do not whiten in the same way as natural tooth enamel. Your dentist can explain how existing dental work may affect the final result.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity or irritation of the gums during or after whitening. These effects are generally temporary, but your dentist can discuss ways to reduce discomfort and determine whether whitening is appropriate for you.
Whitening is also not permanent. Over time, teeth can become stained again, particularly with continued consumption of staining foods and beverages or tobacco use.
Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining the appearance and health of your smile.
We recommend:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Keeping up with regular dental cleanings and examinations
- Limiting foods and drinks that can stain your teeth
- Avoiding tobacco products
Even with good care, whitening results will gradually fade over time. Your dentist can discuss options for maintaining a brighter smile when needed.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
Address
Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
Address
Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM