Teeth Whitening
Everyday habits, certain foods and drinks, and natural changes over time can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Professional teeth whitening can help reduce stains and discoloration, giving your smile a fresher appearance. At Gallery Dental Care, we can help you explore whitening options suited to your teeth and smile goals.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses bleaching agents, commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to lighten the natural color of your teeth. It works by breaking down certain stains within the tooth structure, helping your teeth appear brighter.
The results depend on the type of discoloration, the whitening method used, and your individual teeth. Whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, fillings, or other dental restorations.
What Causes Teeth to Become Stained?
Food and Beverage-Related Stains
Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain strongly colored foods can gradually stain the surface of your teeth over time, affecting their natural brightness and overall appearance.
Discoloration due to Tobacco Use
Smoking and other tobacco use can cause noticeable yellow or brown stains on teeth over time, affecting their natural color and making your smile appear less bright than before.
Age and Natural Changes
As you age, enamel can gradually become thinner, allowing the naturally darker layer beneath it to show through more clearly, which can make your teeth appear increasingly yellow.
Medications and Dental Conditions
Certain medications and dental conditions can cause stubborn stains and discolouration. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend suitable treatment.
What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?
Professional In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening uses professional-strength whitening products under dental supervision. The process is monitored by your dental team. Depending on the system used, treatment may noticeably brighten your teeth in a single visit.
Dentist-Supervised Take-Home Whitening
Your dentist may recommend custom-fitted trays and whitening gel to use at home according to a prescribed schedule. This approach gradually lightens teeth over a period of time.
What Happens During a Whitening Appointment?
Before whitening, your dentist examines your teeth and gums to check whether treatment is appropriate. Existing cavities, gum problems, or other concerns may need attention first. The whitening method is then selected based on your needs. Your dentist will explain the procedure, provide instructions, and discuss what results you can reasonably expect. Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation following treatment.
Discover a Brighter Smile
A brighter smile begins with understanding what is right for your teeth. At Gallery Dental Care, our team can assess your oral health, discuss your smile goals, and help you choose a suitable whitening treatment.