A bright, white smile leaves a lasting impression, boosting your confidence and enhancing your appearance. Over the years, teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic dental treatment. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the investment, the answer is simple: yes. Professional whitening can be a great option for those looking for a brighter smile with supervised care.
In this blog, we’ll explore what professional teeth whitening is, whether it’s worth the investment, its cost, benefits, and potential downsides. We’ll also explain what to expect during your professional whitening treatment, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure where a dentist uses top whitening products to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. Unlike over-the-counter products, which may contain lower concentrations of whitening agents, professional whitening may provide better results, shorter treatment times, and a safer experience. The process can be done in-office or through custom take-home kits provided by your dentist.
Is It Worth It to Get Your Teeth Professionally Whitened?
When it comes to teeth whitening, you have options. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels are widely available, but they don’t always deliver the same results as professional treatments. Here are some key reasons why you might choose professional whitening:
Stronger Treatment
Professional teeth whitening uses stronger whitening agents than over-the-counter options. This may lead to noticeable and longer-lasting results compared to over-the-counter options.
Tailored Treatment
A dentist can assess your oral health and create a custom plan to help achieve results for your specific needs. Whether you have stubborn stains or sensitive teeth, a professional can guide you through your options.
Safety
Whitening products from your dentist are monitored, so there’s less risk of damage to your teeth or gums, unlike DIY treatments, which can sometimes cause sensitivity or harm.
Convenience & Speed
In-office whitening is a quick and convenient way to achieve a brighter smile in a single appointment. In-office whitening can provide visible results in a shorter timeframe than some at-home products.
How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost in Toronto?
The cost of professional teeth whitening in Toronto can vary based on the type of treatment you choose. On average, in-office teeth whitening treatments range from $300 to $600 per session. Take-home whitening kits, which include custom trays and whitening gel, typically cost between $150 and $400. Your dentist will provide you with an estimate based on your specific treatment plan, as well as any additional services you may need, such as teeth cleaning before the whitening procedure.
Are There Downsides to Professional Teeth Whitening?
While professional teeth whitening is a safe treatment, there are a few things to consider before committing to the procedure:
- Tooth sensitivity: Some patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity after whitening, but this usually goes away within a few days. Your dentist may suggest desensitizing toothpaste or other treatments to help ease the discomfort.
- Not suitable for everyone: Whitening may not have the desired results on dental work like crowns, veneers, or fillings. Be sure to discuss your dental history with your dentist to determine if whitening is the right option.
- Maintenance: While professional whitening results can last a long time, they’re not permanent. To keep your smile bright, maintain good oral hygiene and consider touch-up treatments every six months to a year, depending on your habits.
How Long Can Whitening Results Last?
The results of professional teeth whitening can last up to two years, depending on various factors. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, can cause your teeth to stain more quickly, reducing the longevity of your whitening results. To help maintain your results, try to follow up with good oral hygiene, limit stain-causing foods and beverages, and possibly use whitening toothpaste. Touch-up treatments can help keep your smile looking fresh and bright over time.
Benefits of Receiving Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
Fast Results
Professional treatments can offer a faster approach than some at-home options, depending on individual factors. In-office whitening can give you a radiant smile in just 45 minutes.
Customized for Your Needs
Your dentist will customize your whitening treatment based on your individual needs and goals, helping to give you the desired outcome.
Improved Confidence
A brighter smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and help you feel more confident in social and professional situations.
Safe & Monitored
Professional teeth whitening is performed under supervision, helping to minimize risks like gum irritation or tooth sensitivity.
Long-Lasting Results
With good oral care, professional whitening results may last for an extended period, though individual results vary.
What to Expect at Your Professional Teeth Whitening Appointment
Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation: Your whitening journey begins with a consultation to discuss your goals and assess if teeth whitening is right for you. We’ll also address any questions you have about the treatment and alternative options.
- Custom trays: We’ll create custom-fitted trays so the whitening gel is applied evenly and comfortably. These trays can be used for both in-office and at-home treatments.
- Whitening at home: We’ll provide clear instructions on using your custom trays and whitening gel at home. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks, depending on your desired results.
- Follow-up appointment: After completing the whitening treatment, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to check your results and overall oral health.
Ready to Brighten Your Smile?
Schedule your teeth whitening consultation at Dentistry on Danforth today! Whether you choose in-office whitening for quick results or a custom take-home kit for convenience, our friendly team is here to help you achieve a radiant smile you’ll love to show off.