Teeth Whitening in Watrous & Saskatoon

Nowadays, having a bright and white smile is considered a sign of good oral hygiene and overall confidence. With the rise of social media and selfies, more people are becoming conscious of their smile’s appearance and are seeking ways to enhance it.

Professional teeth whitening is a popular and safe cosmetic dentistry procedure that can quickly and effectively make whiter teeth. A dental professional can use specialized techniques and products to effectively remove stains and discoloration from your teeth, helping you attain that sought-after brightness.

Are you considering teeth whitening Saskatoon or Watrous areas? Wheatland Dental offers teeth whitening services to help you achieve a brighter and more confident smile.

Causes of Teeth Discoloration

Common reasons why teeth can become discolored:

• Genetics. Studies show that some people are genetically predisposed to thinner tooth enamel and therefore teeth that are not as white.
• Age. As we get older, our enamel gets thinner and therefore the darker layer of the tooth under the enamel starts to show through.
• Smoking. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes will stain your teeth.
• Food/Beverages. Certain products we consume are more likely to stain our teeth, such as red wine, coffee, tea, and beets.

When considering teeth whitening methods, focusing on safe and effective options is essential for maintaining oral health.

Teeth Whitening Options at Wheatland Dental in Watrous & Saskatoon

Take-Home Whitening Strips

Take-home whitening strips are a convenient solution for brightening your smile from the comfort of your own home. These strips are thin, flexible pieces of plastic coated with a peroxide-based gel which is the active whitening ingredient. They are designed to be applied directly to the teeth and left in place for a specified period of time, usually ranging from 10 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the product.

The peroxide gel in the strips works by penetrating the enamel to address surface stains, helping to achieve a more vibrant smile. Take-home whitening strips are convenient because of their straightforward application process and you can incorporate the treatment into your daily routine. Many of these products have reduced sensitivity formulations to minimize discomfort during the process.

You can expect to see an improvement of 3 to 5 shades with regular use, with noticeable results starting in about a week and full effects typically visible in 2 to 4 weeks.

Benefits of Whitening Strips

• Ease of Use. Whitening strips are flexible and adhere to the teeth, making them easy to apply without the need for custom fittings or molds.
• Quick Results. They offer a fast and convenient way to brighten your smile, with noticeable results often visible in a short period due to their peroxide-based formulas.
• Accessibility. Over-the-counter strips are widely available, allowing individuals to access teeth whitening treatments without requiring a visit to a dental professional.
• Affordability. Generally more cost-effective than professional in-office treatments, whitening strips provide a budget-friendly option for achieving a whiter smile.

Take-Home Whitening Trays

Take-home whitening trays are a convenient and effective method for whitening teeth outside of a dental office. These trays are custom-fitted to your teeth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit. They are typically used with a whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide, which is applied to the trays that you wear for a specified period based on the manufacturer’s instructions or one of our dentists.

While you perform the procedure at home, this is considered a professional dental treatment because we provide you with a custom-made whitening tray for your mouth and professional strength bleach. We will take an impression of your teeth to create a custom dental tray that you will take home and use at your convenience.

Take-home trays may make your teeth five shades whiter after five treatments of five minutes each. 

Benefits of Whitening Trays

• Customization. Whitening trays, especially those made by a dentist, are custom-fitted to your teeth, ensuring even application of the gel and enhancing effectiveness.
• Effectiveness. Custom-molded trays combined with peroxide-based gels often deliver more thorough and noticeable results compared to strips due to their comprehensive coverage.
• Gradual Whitening. Trays allow for a gradual whitening process, which can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more subtle approach or for touch-up treatments over time.
• Privacy and Convenience. Take-home trays offer a convenient and private way to enhance your smile from the comfort of your home.

These side effects are temporary and typically subside within a few days, but it is important to consult your dentist in Saskatoon if you experience any discomfort or pain during or after using teeth whitening products.

Potential Side Effects of Take-Home Teeth Whitening Trays and Strips

The use of teeth whitening products, whether in the form of strips or trays, may come with potential side effects that individuals should be aware of. These include:

• Gum Irritation. One of the most frequently reported side effects is gum irritation, which can manifest as pain, sensitivity, or bleeding in the gum tissue.
• Tooth Sensitivity. Another common side effect associated with both whitening strips and trays is tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures.
• Soft Tissue Discomfort. In more extreme cases, soft tissue irritation from the whitening solution may lead to bleeding and pain in the gum tissue.
• Discoloration and Uneven Whitening. Some individuals may experience discoloration or uneven effects as a side effect of over-the-counter whitening products.
• Hypersensitivity and Tooth Discomfort. Side effects such as gum sensitivity, hypersensitivity, tooth discomfort, and uneven tint have also been reported in relation to teeth whitening treatments.

FAQs About Teeth Whitening Strips and Trays

What should I do if I experience sensitivity while using teeth whitening trays or strips?

Some sensitivity is normal, but if it’s severe or persists after you stop using the product, consult your dentist.

Can I use teeth whitening strips or trays if I have fillings or crowns?

Yes, but just be aware that existing crowns and fillings won’t whiten along with your natural teeth, which may result in a mismatch in color.

Can I use teeth whitening products if I have braces?

It would be best to wait until braces are removed before using a whitening product to ensure even results.

Can I use whitening trays or strips while pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should discuss this topic with your dentist or physician; there’s limited research on teeth whitening during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Why do I need a tray for whitening my teeth?

The tray holds the whitening gel on your teeth, ensuring it’s properly distributed and remains in contact with the tooth surface for the designated time.

Are teeth whitening strips and trays safe?

These products are generally considered safe when used according to the manufacturer’s directions. Nonetheless, overuse can result in tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.

Let Wheatland Dental Help You Achieve a Brighter Smile With Teeth Whitening in Saskatoon and Watrous

Looking for a reliable and effective way to brighten your teeth at home? Our dental clinic offers custom-fitted take-home teeth whitening services in Saskatoon and Watrous areas. Our team of dental professionals can guide you on the proper use and application of these products to ensure safe and optimal results.

Call us today to learn more about the different options we offer here at Wheatland Dental!