Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening at Freshwater Dental

Many patients are worried about the safety of teeth whitening treatment. While the process does use a bleach, it is concentrated at a safe level and therefore poses little to no risk to patients. However it is important to have a consultation with your dentist before you begin any whitening treatments as they will be able to assess your teeth to ensure that there will be no side effects or issues. If you have any pre-existing dental problems it is important to disclose this information during your appointment before the treatment begins. At Freshwater Dental, we use high-quality products like Pola to protect your teeth and gums.

Results vary based on diet and lifestyle, but with proper care, your teeth can stay bright for months. Ask us about tips to maintain your whitened smile!

Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after in-chair whitening. We use advanced techniques to minimize discomfort, and our team is here to ensure your comfort every step of the way.

Once your dentist has determined that you are a suitable candidate for teeth whitening, they will take an impression of your teeth. This will allow them to create your custom fit bleaching tray. It normally takes a week or two for this tray to be created and once complete you will return for your second appointment. During this appointment you will collect your bleaching tray and whitening solution and your dentist will confirm the frequency of which you are to wear it. Most patients will wear the bleaching tray for a couple of hours a day however some choose the wear it overnight. Normally the treatment will take 10-14 days, depending on the desired results.

There are a number of reasons for tooth discolouration and these will all effect the results of your teeth whitening treatment. During your initial appointment you dentist will assess your teeth to evaluate whether or not your will be a successful candidate for teeth whitening. Once the assessment is complete they will be able to advise on the results you can expect to achieve.

The longevity of teeth whitening will vary from patient to patient, however for most it should last for 1-3 years. You can extend this by visiting Freshwater Dental for touch ups every 1 – 2 years. Lifestyle factors like eating habits and smoking will have a negative effect on your newly whitened teeth. Here are some tips to sustain your newly whitened teeth:

• Avoid smoking
• Avoid eating darker foods like blueberries or raspberries especially during the two weeks following your whitening treatment as your teeth will remain slightly more porous which makes them more susceptible to stains.
• Avoid drinking red wine, coffee and tea as these drinks will also stain your teeth.
• Eat foods like apples, celery and hard cheese as they will produce more saliva which helps to break down food particles that have collected in your teeth. These foods also gently scrub your teeth which helps to remove stains.
• Maintain a good dental hygiene routine which consists of twice daily brushing, daily flossing and mouthwash (however you dentist may recommend that you do not use mouthwash if you suffer from dry mouth).
• After eating, rinse your mouth with water to help remove food particles. Do not brush your teeth until 30 minutes after eating as the brushing may damage your tooth enamel.
• When drinking beverages that may cause stains (coffee, soft drink etc.) it is best to use a straw as this minimises contact between the drink and your teeth.
• Visit your Freshwater Dental hygienist for regular check-ups and cleans.

While there are little to no major risks for patients undergoing teeth whitening treatment, some patients may experience some minor side effects. This normally includes tooth sensitivity, a sore throat and tender gums. The sore throat and tender gums is normally a result of too much bleach being applied to the bleaching tray and leaking onto the gums or down the throat. This irritation will normally only last a couple of days and will go away on its own. Tooth sensitivity should also only last a short period of time however can be eased through the use of a sensitive toothpaste.