Tooth whitening or also known as your crystal whitening method, is a simple yet non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel.

Fort McMurray Dental offers two possible techniques for whitening; the Laser Whitening method or the use of Peroxide Whitening Gels as a means of enhancing your smile.


What is Laser Whitening?
Laser whiteninging is a method that requires an assistant or hygienist to apply a peroxide solution onto the surface of your teeth. The second step involves the use of light or laser to accelerate the whitening process and takes roughly one to two hours to complete the procedure. The best part of this procedure is that it needs no additional at home treatment.

The long-term result does depend solely on each individual and their everyday lifestyle. For example, the use of tobacco products, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and infrequent visits to the dentist can all contribute to a less desired effect. However, with regular dental visits and proper dental care products such as whitening toothpaste can maintain the result for as long as one to two years period.


Peroxide Whitening Gels
It is important to note that, laser tooth whitening is safe and will not soften enamel or existing fillings. Hydrogen peroxide gel has been used by dentists for centuries as a method to whiten tooth surfaces. A 15% of hydrogen peroxide has been used in laser tooth whitening and is considered safe for all gum types and does not cause sensitivity.

Advantages:
1) Results lasting longer than any other method.
2) There is no follow-up treatment required.
3) The procedure can be completed within one to two hours.

Disadvantages:
1) The treatment is more expensive compared to tray whitening (expected cost from anywhere between $500 to $1500).
2) Whitening can be effective on very yellow or grey teeth but, the results can be better seen when removing stains rather than trying to lighten naturally grey teeth.
3) You may experience more sensitivity with laser whitening compared to tray whitening.


Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Whitening

Does Fort McMurray Dental offer take-home whitening?
Yes

Does laser whitening cause sensitivity to the teeth themselves along with the gums?
Yes, some patients can experience sensitivity with regular Whitening Gels. However, it is noticed that those who are sensitive to the Whitening Gels generally experiences little or no sensitivity to Laser Whitening.

How long will my first appointment take?
The first appointment will usually take two hours in length.

What type of light is used to activate the peroxide gel?
Fort McMurray Dental uses the Zoom Professional Whitening System with a Sapphire light.

How long does the result of crystal whitening last?
This is entirely dependent on your personal lifestyle habits. If you are a coffee, tea drinker or a smoker, the whitening will normally last about two years on average. However, most non-smokers and moderate coffee and tea drinkers report that the whitening last about five years or more with an occasional touch-up.

How many times can the same client repeat the laser whitening throughout the years?
In general, your teeth will whiten six to ten shades in only one appointment and most patients only need one visit to achieve their whitening goals but, a second appointment may be necessary to reach your whiteness goal.

Is the use of whitening toothpaste recommended after a crystal whitening treatment?
We do not recommend any specific toothpaste just as long as it is approved by the American Dental Association.

How many shades levels can be achieved after competition of the whitening treatment?
A difference in up to ten shades can be noticed in only the first appointment.