Teeth Whitening
White teeth are one of the most valued aesthetic features. That’s why solutions for yellowing teeth are so popular. Among the options available, professional treatments are the most popular. At General Dentist Solutions, we offer at-home teeth whitening in Ottawa, a safe and effective treatment done entirely under the supervision of your dentist.
Why do teeth turn yellow?
Teeth are naturally white. However, sometimes they become yellow and lose their brightness. This common phenomenon is due to two main causes:
- A build-up of stains on the enamel: the dark compounds in tobacco and in certain foods and drinks (berries, coffee, black tea, red wine, black soft drinks) tend to stick to the teeth. Over time, they become visible and gradually mask the natural shine of the enamel;
- Structural changes: as the enamel thins, the yellow dentin underneath becomes visible. Wear and tear and the consumption of acidic products (orange juice, lemonade, citrus fruits, salad dressings, tomatoes, etc.) contribute to this phenomenon. Medication and dental trauma can also affect the internal structures of the teeth and cause a change in color.
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How can yellowed teeth be whitened?
Structural changes are irreversible, so yellowed teeth cannot be whitened if due to enamel thinning or internal discoloration. However, they can be camouflaged with porcelain veneers. Yellowing due to stain accumulation can be corrected. Whitening treatments, including those sold over the counter, are designed to dissolve these deposits. To achieve excellent results while avoiding further damage to the enamel, it is recommended that you use a professional treatment, such as the home whitening offered by your Ottawa dentist.
What are the steps for home bleaching?
- Impressions are taken of your teeth in order to make the trays that will be used for the treatment.
- When the trays are ready, your dentist will provide you with the specially calibrated whitening solution and give you treatment instructions (total duration, daily exposure time, etc.).
To bleach, simply fill the trays with bleach and wear them daily for a predetermined period of time. - After 10 to 14 days, you should see an improvement in the color of your teeth. A follow-up appointment should be scheduled to check the results. Touch-ups are generally recommended after 6 to 12 months.
