It’s a question that your dentist has heard many times before from patients just like you living in the Calgary area. The short answer is “no,” but there are important things that you need to be aware of.
Do-it-yourself teeth whitening products can be dangerous if applied incorrectly or used too frequently. Keep reading to learn more about professional cosmetic dentistry and the teeth whitening procedures available from your dentist in Calgary.
Tooth Whitening at Home vs. at the Dentist
The DIY tooth whitening kits available at your local pharmacy simply cannot give you the same level of treatment and care you receive at the dentist. Home kits can be hard on your teeth, especially with repeated use. And if not applied correctly, the whitening agent in DIY kits can hurt your gums and the inside of your mouth.
On the other hand, your dentist is skilled in cosmetic dentistry procedures like tooth whitening and will ensure that your whitening treatment is 100% safe.
What Happens During a Professional Whitening Appointment
When you visit your dentist in Calgary to have your teeth whitened, he or she will carefully prepare your mouth for the whitening agent and take steps to ensure that surrounding tissue is not affected. The specific procedure that your dentist uses to whiten your teeth depends on the source and type of discolouration that you’re experiencing. There are basically two methods of professional whitening procedures your dentist can use:
Intrinsic whitening focuses on whitening the inner part of your teeth. A peroxide gel is applied to the surface and left to sit so the tooth can soak up the peroxide and whiten from the inside out. Intrinsic whitening is ideal for patients whose teeth have yellowed with age or as a result of illness, disease or taking certain medications.
Extrinsic whitening focuses on removing staining and discolouration from the surface of the tooth. Extrinsic whitening is ideal for patients with staining due to the consumption of coffee, tea, wine or cigarettes. Your dentist will apply a polishing paste to your teeth to dissolve the tiny particles causing the discolouration.
For Teeth Whitening in Calgary, Visit Forest Lawn Dental Centre
When performed by a trained dentist with experience in the latest cosmetic dentistry techniques, teeth whitening is perfectly safe. The best way to avoid enamel damage is to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water and visit your dentist in Calgary regularly.
To learn more about professional teeth whitening procedures, visit Forest Lawn Dental Centre today. For over 18 years, Forest Lawn Dental Centre has been Calgary’s source for gentle and professional oral care. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. We’ll get you smiling brightly again!