If you’re wondering if there’s a difference between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching – there is!
Whitening is a process that restores your teeth’s natural colour by removing stains and food remains that stick to teeth.
Bleaching generally involves the use of peroxide-based compounds that penetrate the teeth. Once these compounds get into your teeth, they release hydrogen peroxide, which alters colour deeper into the teeth. Bleaching is irreversible when the procedure is applied, and its effects can last for up to two years, depending on your teeth’s future exposure to discolouring substances.
How teeth bleaching works
Depending on the method used, the bleaching effect can be achieved in a matter of days or even in an hour, while you watch TV or listen to your favourite music in the dental chair. We can apply all three available methods:
- We apply a special bleach on your stained teeth and then use light or laser to speed up the reaction
- We can make custom-made trays that you fill with a special bleach and apply it on your teeth for part of each day
- We can provide you with a special bleach pen that you can simply apply on your teeth
Is teeth bleaching safe?
Along with concerns relating to pregnancy and breastfeeding (discussed elsewhere on this page), a frequent question our patients ask is whether teeth bleaching is generally safe. Rest assured, it’s perfectly safe. It has proved to be highly effective and delivers many benefits, including an enhanced smile, more youthful appearance, and greater confidence and self-esteem.
Is teeth bleaching painful?
Bleaching treatment may lead to tooth sensitivity as well as irritation to the soft tissues. These effects usually occur only within 24 hours following the bleaching treatment and may be considerably alleviated using special relief compounds applied immediately after the bleaching procedure.
Teeth bleaching during pregnancy or breastfeeding
This is an issue that our patients bring up quite often. Since, there are no definitive studies that provide data on the effects of teeth bleaching on women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding, we recommend safety first – that is, avoid this procedure during the course of your pregnancy or for as long as you breastfeed your infant.
Is teeth bleaching covered by insurance?
We will be happy to prepare a claim for your insurance company and find out if you are covered for this procedure.
Looking for teeth-bleaching services in downtown Montreal?
You can count on Comfort Care Dental Clinic for teeth-bleaching services that restore your smile. Come meet our team of dedicated dental professionals at our clinic conveniently located in downtown Montreal at 2045 Stanley Street, Suite 1100 – a very short walk from Peel metro station.