Important Precautions for Teeth Whitening

Our Red Deer dentists know there's no at-home method that will whiten your teeth overnight. It typically takes 10–14 days of consistent use to see results with home whitening kits. Keep in mind that those results are not permanent; if you continue habits that caused staining (coffee, tea, smoking), the discolouration will gradually return over a few months. Limit staining foods and drinks where possible. For example, sip dark beverages through a straw to minimize contact with teeth, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming stain-causing drinks like coffee or red wine. 

Whitening your teeth at home is generally safe if you follow instructions carefully. Here are some precautions to keep in mind: 

Do not exceed the recommended usage time or frequency for any product. Overusing whiteners can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, which are usually temporary but unpleasant. If you notice sharp sensitivity or sore gums, stop using the product for a day or two. You can resume once things improve, but shorten the exposure time or frequency. It’s also wise to use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth during whitening to ease symptoms. 

Ensure your mouth is healthy before whitening. If you have untreated cavities or gum disease, whitening products can aggravate these conditions. Whitening is best on clean, healthy teeth. Consider a check-up and cleaning with your family dentist at Clearview Dental before starting any whitening regimen. Our dental hygienist can remove surface tartar and stains during a professional cleaning, which can jump-start your whitening and ensure you’re starting with a healthy foundation. 

Know When to See a Dentist for Teeth Whitening

At-home methods work well for extrinsic stains (the kind caused by coffee, tea, smoking, etc.). However, if your teeth are deeply discoloured from within (intrinsic stains due to factors like antibiotics, fluorosis, or injury), over-the-counter methods might not be effective. Likewise, whitening products only work on natural tooth enamel, so they won’t whiten dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or veneers. If you have uneven colour because of restorations, or your staining is resistant, it’s best to consult a dentist. We may recommend professional in-office whitening or other cosmetic options (like veneers) to achieve the results you want. 

Finally, remember that at-home whitening requires maintenance. Once you reach a shade you’re happy with, you’ll need to do occasional touch-ups. This might mean wearing your custom trays for a night or two each month, or using a whitening strip kit every few months, to counteract new stains. And of course, maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and flossing to prevent plaque and tartar buildup that can make your teeth look dull. Whitening works best on clean, plaque-free enamel. 

Visit Your Family Dentist at Clearview Dental in Red Deer 

You can safely whiten your teeth at home by using dentist-approved products and being consistent. Focus on removing surface stains with reliable methods such as whitening toothpaste, strips, or custom trays from a dentist. Avoid overdoing it. More is not better when it comes to bleach on your teeth. If you’re ever unsure about a whitening method, don’t hesitate to call our office.

We’re happy to guide you so your teeth-whitening journey is safe and successful. 

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