Thinking About Whitening Your Teeth?
If you're looking to brighten your smile, it's always best to chat with your dentist first. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment, and there are plenty of safe and effective options out there—but what works best for you depends on your unique smile.
Also known as dental bleaching, teeth whitening is becoming more and more common. As we age, our teeth can darken over time. This can be due to changes in the tooth’s structure, staining from food and drinks (like coffee, tea, or red wine), or habits like smoking.
Whitening treatments can help restore your teeth to their natural colour. There are many options available—from whitening toothpastes and strips to professional treatments using gels, trays, or even lasers.
Yes, professional whitening is generally safe when done under a dentist’s guidance. It’s a conservative way to brighten your smile. That said, you might experience some temporary tooth sensitivity, and it’s important to avoid getting the whitening gel on your gums, lips, or tongue, as it can irritate soft tissue.
Using whitening products too often can also wear down the enamel on your teeth, which could lead to increased sensitivity—especially to hot and cold foods or drinks. That's why it's important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.
Whitening isn’t considered harmful during pregnancy, but since it’s a cosmetic treatment, most dentists recommend waiting until after your baby is born.
Absolutely. In some cases, you may only need to whiten the upper teeth—or even a single tooth—depending on what's visible when you smile. Your dentist can help you decide what’s best.
If your dentist recommends at-home whitening, they may take impressions of your teeth to make custom trays. You’ll use these trays with a whitening gel, wearing them for about 30 minutes a night for a couple of weeks (give or take, depending on the level of staining). The gel contains hydrogen peroxide, which works by lightening stains below the enamel surface.
Whitening results can last for several months, but your lifestyle habits—like what you eat or drink—can affect how long they stay bright.
Only natural teeth whiten. Crowns and caps will not change color and may need replacement for color matching.
Whitening results can last for several months, but your lifestyle habits—like what you eat or drink—can affect how long they stay bright.
Yes! There are specific products designed for whitening dentures. Be sure to use only denture-safe options, and speak with your dentist for guidance.
Whitening products only work on natural teeth—they won’t lighten crowns, bridges, veneers, or other dental work. If you're thinking about whitening, keep this in mind, as your natural teeth could end up a different shade from your restorations.
There are some situations where whitening may not be recommended—for example, if you have gum disease, untreated cavities, or are under 16 years old. It’s also best to wait if you're pregnant.
If a tooth has been discoloured due to a root canal, regular whitening might not be effective, since the staining is coming from inside the tooth. In that case, your dentist may recommend internal bleaching.
Yes—if whitening isn’t enough, there are other cosmetic options to consider. Bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to improve the appearance of stained teeth. Veneers are another great option and can be used to cover dark or discoloured teeth for a brighter, more uniform smile.