The Truth About Teeth Whitening: What Really Works?

A bright smile never goes out of style. Whether you're heading to an event, job interview, or just want to feel more confident in your day-to-day life, whiter teeth can help you look and feel your best. But with so many whitening options on the market—from drugstore strips to online kits—how do you know what actually works?

At Dentus Family Dental, we’ve helped countless patients achieve whiter, healthier smiles with safe and effective professional whitening treatments. In this article, we’ll break down what teeth whitening is, the best ways to do it, and how to maintain your results

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Teeth can become stained or discolored for several reasons, including

• Diet: Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits

• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco

• Medications: Some antibiotics and antihistamines

• Age: Enamel wears down over time, revealing the yellow dentin underneath

• Poor oral hygiene: Plaque and tartar buildup can dull your smile

Knowing the cause of your tooth discoloration is the first step toward finding the right whitening solution.

Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter

Over-the-Counter Options

Products like whitening strips, toothpaste, and gels are widely available, but their effectiveness varies. These options often

• Take longer to show results

• Contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents

• May not whiten evenly

• Can cause sensitivity if overused Professional Whitening at Dentus Family Dental

Our in-office whitening treatments are both safe and highly effective. With advanced technology and dental-grade ingredients, we’re able to

• Whiten teeth multiple shades in just one visit

• Minimize sensitivity with customized trays and techniques

• Ensure even, natural-looking results

• Offer take-home kits for convenient touch-ups

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Yes—when done correctly. At Dentus Family Dental, we use clinically proven materials and procedures that protect your enamel and gums. We also evaluate your dental health beforehand to make sure whitening is appropriate for your situation.

Patients with gum disease, cavities, or dental restorations (like crowns or veneers) may need alternative options or additional care before whitening.

What to Expect During Treatment

Here’s how the typical in-office whitening process works:

1. Initial Consultation: We assess your oral health and determine the ideal treatment plan.

2. Preparation: We protect your gums and lips to prevent irritation.

3. Application: A whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a special light.

4. Rinse & Reveal: After a short time, the gel is removed to reveal a noticeably whiter smile.

The whole process takes about 60–90 minutes, and most patients see immediate improvement.

How to Keep Your Smile Bright

After whitening, you’ll want to preserve your results. Here are a few tips:

• Avoid stain-causing foods and drinks (especially in the first 48 hours)

• Rinse your mouth after meals and beverages

• Brush with whitening toothpaste and floss daily

• Schedule regular cleanings at your dental clinic

• Use a custom take-home kit for occasional touch-ups

A Whiter Smile, the Right Way

You don’t need to rely on over-the-counter fads or risky home remedies to get the bright smile you want. At Dentus Family Dental, we offer proven, professional solutions that are both safe and effective. If you’re searching for a trusted dental clinic in St. Albert, our team is here to guide you through every step of your smile transformation.

Take the First Step Toward a Radiant Smile
Book your teeth whitening consultation at Dentus Family Dental today, and discover just how bright your smile can be.