Thinking About Whitening Your Teeth?

Teeth whitening is a popular and effective way to enhance your smile. In fact, more than ten million North Americans choose to whiten their teeth each year, making it the #1 cosmetic dental service today! With a rise in popularity, Americans spent over $3.2 billion on over-the-counter whitening products in 2016 alone. If you're considering whitening your smile, here's everything you need to know.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a procedure designed to remove stains and lighten teeth pigmentation. At Granada Dental, we’ll customize the best whitening method based on your needs, using safe, effective whitening agents like carbamide peroxide, one of the safest chemicals available for teeth whitening.

Are Teeth Whitening Procedures Safe?

Yes! Professional teeth whitening, when performed by your dentist, is safe and effective. Over-the-counter products, while convenient, often contain much lower concentrations of the active whitening agent, meaning results take longer to achieve. It's important to discuss whitening options with your dentist to ensure you get the best results and avoid damage.

How White Can I Expect My Teeth to Look?

The whiteness of your teeth depends on the degree of discoloration and how your teeth respond to treatment. Typically, whitening can improve your teeth by up to eight shades, though even a change of just two to three shades can create a noticeable difference. Long-term results depend on your eating habits—coffee, tea, wine, and certain foods can cause stains over time, so touch-up treatments may be necessary.

Is There Such a Thing as Being Too Young or Too Old for Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is highly effective for patients of all ages, though it's generally not recommended for children whose teeth are still developing. For teenagers and adults, teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure to brighten your smile, whether for a special event like prom or graduation, or simply to refresh your look.

The History of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening has a long history that dates back to ancient times. In 4000 BC, Egyptians used a paste made from pumice stone and vinegar to whiten their teeth, associating white teeth with beauty and wealth. The methods evolved over the centuries, from ammonia-rich urine in ancient Rome to peroxide-based treatments in the 1800s, and today, carbamide peroxide in dental trays provides the most effective, reliable whitening results.

If you're ready to brighten your smile, Granada Dental is here to guide you through the best teeth whitening options for your needs. Contact us today at (780) 464-6266 to schedule a consultation!