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Stained or yellow teeth can cause people to feel self-conscious about their smiles. This is a common problem as a result of anything from drinking coffee or tea to smoking or even aging.
If you have ever felt embarrassed or avoided smiling in a picture, you are not alone; many suffer from it.
The good thing is that teeth whitening in West Edmonton can restore your smile.
With safe and effective procedures available, teeth whitening will bring the brightness back to your smile and allow you to feel confident again.
What does teeth whitening mean?
Teeth whitening is said to remove discolouration and enhance the natural colour of teeth. It, however, will not make them dazzling white but lighten them by a few shades.
Most whitening products, therefore, contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as their bleaching agents. It contains small stains in a large area, thereby presenting an opportunity for teeth to shine.
Methods for whitening your teeth include professional dental whitening and over-the-counter whitening products. Each has its advantages, depending on your needs and budget.
Understanding the Types of Teeth Stains
To choose the best treatment, it helps to know what kind of stains you’re dealing with. There are two main types of teeth stains:
| Type of Stain | Cause | Can It Be Whitened? |
|---|---|---|
| Extrinsic Stains | Caused by food, drinks (coffee, wine), smoking | Yes, often with over-the-counter or professional treatments |
| Intrinsic Stains | Found inside the tooth, often from aging, trauma, or medication | Harder to treat, usually needs professional care |
| Age-Related Stains | A combo of both extrinsic and intrinsic | Often improved with in-office whitening |
Extrinsic stains are the most common and usually respond well to whitening products. Intrinsic stains, however, may need stronger, professional treatment.
What Causes Teeth to Stain?
Here are some of the most common reasons your teeth may lose their whiteness:
- Drinking dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Natural aging process
- Certain medications, especially antibiotics like tetracycline
- Trauma to a tooth, which can cause internal darkening
By understanding the cause, your dentist can recommend the best whitening option for you.
Teeth Whitening Options: What Are Your Choices?
When it comes to teeth whitening options, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Here are the most popular choices, along with their pros and cons:
1. In-Office Whitening
Performed by a dental professional, this method uses high-concentration bleaching agents to achieve fast results, often in a single visit.
Pros:
- Immediate results
- Safe and supervised
- Can treat deep stains
Cons:
- More expensive than other methods
- Temporary sensitivity is common
2. Take-Home Whitening Kits (From Dentist)
These kits include custom-made trays and professional-grade gel, used daily over a week or two.
Pros:
- Stronger than over-the-counter kits
- More affordable than in-office whitening
- Can be done at home
Cons:
- Results take longer
- Requires consistent use for best results
3. Over-the-Counter Products
Includes whitening strips, gels, and trays available at pharmacies.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to access
Cons:
- Less effective on deep stains
- Generic fit may lead to uneven results
4. Whitening Toothpaste
These remove surface stains but don’t contain bleach.
Pros:
- Great for maintenance
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Doesn’t whiten deeply
- Results may be minimal
Myths and Facts About Teeth Whitening
There’s a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s clear up some common myths:
Myth 1: Whitening damages enamel
Fact: When done properly, whitening is safe. Professional treatments are designed to protect your enamel.
Myth 2: Natural remedies like baking soda and lemon juice are safer
Fact: These can erode enamel and damage your teeth if used too often or improperly.
Myth 3: Once you whiten your teeth, they’ll stay white forever
Fact: Whitening results fade over time, especially if you drink coffee, tea, or smoke.
Myth 4: Whitening works on all types of teeth
Fact: It doesn’t work on crowns, veneers, or fillings. Also, some stains (like intrinsic stains) may not respond well to basic whitening.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, when done properly and under professional supervision. Whitening treatments approved by dentists are considered safe for most people. However, some side effects may occur:
- Temporary tooth sensitivity
- Gum irritation
These usually go away within a few days. If you experience prolonged discomfort, talk to your dentist.
How Long Do Whitening Results Last?
Whitening isn’t permanent. Results vary but generally last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years.
To make your smile last longer:
- Brush twice daily
- Avoid tobacco and stain-causing drinks
- Use a straw for beverages like coffee or soda
- Schedule touch-up treatments if needed
When to Avoid Teeth Whitening
Whitening might not be right for everyone. You should avoid or postpone treatment if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have untreated cavities or gum disease
- You experience severe tooth sensitivity
- You have dental restorations that won’t respond to whitening
Wrapping Up!
Everyone deserves a smile they feel proud of. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or just want to boost your confidence, teeth whitening can help you get there.
Brighten your smile, boost your confidence.
At Capital Dental Choice, we offer safe, effective whitening treatments tailored to your needs. Book an appointment with a dentist West Edmonton to explore your options and start your journey toward a whiter smile.
