What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
As we age, our teeth naturally darken as they become stained and discoloured on the inside and surface of the tooth. Many factors can lead to the discolouration of your teeth, including:
- Foods and beverages like coffee and red wine
- Smoking
- Dental hygiene upkeep
- Accidents
Professional teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to help whiten and brighten your smile. The process is simple, non-invasive, and can help change the colour of your natural teeth by targeting and removing stains.
The team at James Bay Dental use Zoom!® and Spadent teeth whitening systems to help you get closer to your smile goals. Our dentists can help you determine if whitening your teeth is right for you.
Treatment Options To Fit Your Lifestyle
In-Office Teeth Whitening & Take-Home Touch-Up Kits
Our goal is to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile. That's why we offer treatment options – in our office using Zoom!® or Spadent with our dental team, or a personalized take-home kit. Either way, you'll be on your way to your new smile!
What are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. Having a brighter smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Additionally, taking care of your oral health can have an impact on your overall health and well-being.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Our dentists use a peroxide-based gel in teeth whitening treatments. This gel breaks down stain molecules, which can result in a whiter, brighter-looking smile. The peroxide gel is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and safe to use.
Different shades of white suit different people. Your dental professional will help you choose the right shade for your teeth.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
At our location, we offer the safe, effective and fast tooth whitening systems, Zoom!® or Spadent, which uses LED technology that minimizes post operative tooth sensitivity.
How does it work? First our dental team will start by isolating your lips and gums with a barrier. Next, they will apply the Zoom! or Spadent whitening gel, which contains specifically formulated, pH balanced hydrogen peroxide, on the teeth. To activate the Zoom! whitening gel, your dentist applies a specially designed, low-heat light that penetrates the teeth. During this process, the hydrogen peroxide in the gel attaches to stained molecules on the teeth, weakening them. This allows oxygen to enter the tooth enamel and lighten them. Upon successful completion of your treatment, your teeth can appear visibly whiter.
Personalized Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kit
You can also achieve a whiter and brighter smile from the comfort of your own home by using our at-home touch-up kit. If you choose the take-home whitening option, we make impressions of your mouth and create custom whitening trays. You apply a whitening gel to these trays and wear them according to the directions for use. At the end of the treatment period, you should notice that your teeth appear visibly whiter!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at James Bay Dental.
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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
Whitening is not permanent. Beverages such as coffee and wine, and certain foods can restain the teeth. Depending on diet, the effects of whitening may last longer for some people than others. If you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine, you may just desire a touch-up after one year or so.
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Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of teeth whitening. Please consult your insurance provider to confirm if it is or isn't covered.
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Does teeth whitening make teeth more sensitive?
One short-term side effect of teeth whitening may be sensitivity. For most patients, this fades away within a few days following a whitening session. To minimize any discomfort, we recommend that you use an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before treatment, and for at least two weeks following your treatment.
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Do teeth whitening products work on all stains?
Typically, brown, and yellow-coloured stains respond best to teeth whitening treatments. Some stains tend not to respond to whitening treatments at all. If having a whiter smile is important to you but your teeth have non-responsive stains, your dentist may recommend other cosmetic treatments such as dental crowns or veneers that may be a better fit for you.
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Does teeth whitening work on dental restorations?
Unfortunately no. Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth. Therefore, it will not work on existing dental restorations such as dental crowns or veneers. If crowns or veneers are part of your treatment plan, teeth whitening should take place before you receive your dental restorations.
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Will teeth whitening damage my tooth enamel?
When used under the supervision of a qualified dentist, teeth whitening is very unlikely to damage your dental enamel. Always consult with your dentist to ensure you are using any teeth whitening products safely. If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort anywhere in your mouth, let your dentist know right away. Even if it’s not related to whitening, they should be able to help.