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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Teeth Whitening in Selkirk
Whitening can lighten natural teeth, but it does not change fillings or crowns. Selkirk patients can check suitability and options at our Port Dover office.
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Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsA brighter shade, safely
Whitening works best when it starts with an exam.
Professional whitening uses peroxide-based gels to lighten the natural colour of teeth. It can be effective for yellowing from age, coffee, tea or wine, though results vary from person to person. Whitening does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers, and some types of discolouration respond better than others.
Selkirk patients interested in a brighter smile can have their teeth assessed at our Port Dover office before choosing a whitening method. The dentist will look for decay, gum issues and existing restorations, explain realistic expectations and discuss whether in-office, take-home or another approach suits your teeth.
Is it right for you?
Not all discolouration behaves the same.
Stains that respond well
Yellow or light brown staining from food, drinks, tobacco or natural aging often responds well to whitening. Teeth with an even, warm tone usually lighten more predictably. The dentist will look at your current shade, the type of staining and the condition of your enamel before suggesting whether whitening is likely to give a result you will be happy with.
When whitening may not help
Grey or deep internal discolouration, such as from certain medications, trauma or a tooth that has had a root canal, may respond less predictably. Fillings, crowns and veneers will not lighten. If a single tooth has darkened, it should be examined first, as the cause may need attention. The dentist will suggest alternatives where whitening is unlikely to help.
Choosing a method
Each method has its own advantages.
In-office whitening
In-office whitening applies a stronger gel under professional supervision, with the gums protected. It can produce a noticeable change in a single appointment for some people, though results vary. The dentist monitors the process and adjusts as needed. Sensitivity may be more noticeable with stronger gels, so let the team know if you have sensitive teeth.
Take-home trays
Take-home whitening uses custom trays made from impressions of your teeth, with a lower-strength gel worn for a set time each day or night. Results build gradually over a couple of weeks. This method gives you control over the pace and allows touch-ups later. The dentist will explain how to use the trays and gel safely.
During treatment
A few steps help whitening go smoothly.
Preparing your teeth
Before whitening, the dentist may recommend a cleaning to remove surface stains and tartar. Any decay or gum problems should be treated first. A starting shade is recorded so you can compare results. If you plan to replace visible fillings or crowns, the dentist will discuss doing so after whitening so they can be matched to the new shade.
Managing sensitivity
Temporary sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening. Using a desensitizing toothpaste before and during treatment may help. With take-home trays, you can space out sessions if sensitivity becomes uncomfortable. Avoid very hot or cold foods during treatment. Contact the office if sensitivity is severe or gums become irritated.
Keeping your results
Whitening results fade gradually.
Habits that affect colour
Coffee, tea, red wine, cola and tobacco can restain teeth over time. Rinsing with water after these drinks, using a straw for cold beverages and brushing regularly can help. Regular professional cleanings remove surface stains that build up between visits. Results last differently for different people, depending largely on diet and habits.
Touch-ups over time
With take-home trays, occasional touch-up sessions can help maintain your shade. Ask the dentist how often touch-ups are appropriate, as overuse can increase sensitivity. If you have in-office whitening, the dentist can discuss maintenance options. Keep up with regular checkups so your teeth and gums stay healthy as well as bright.
Planning your appointment
Exploring whitening from Selkirk.
Book an exam or cosmetic consultation at our Port Dover office and mention you are interested in whitening. The dentist will assess your teeth and discuss which method suits you.
Mention any tooth sensitivity, visible fillings or crowns and whether you have tried whitening products before.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Teeth whitening questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Is professional whitening safe for my teeth?
When used as directed under professional guidance, whitening is generally considered safe for healthy teeth and gums. Temporary sensitivity is common. The dentist will check your teeth first and recommend a method and strength suited to you.
Will whitening work on my crowns or fillings?
No. Whitening only lightens natural tooth structure. Crowns, fillings and veneers stay the same colour. If they are visible, they may need replacing after whitening to match your new shade. The dentist will discuss this during planning.
How long do whitening results last?
Results vary depending on diet, habits and the method used. Coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco can cause restaining. Touch-ups and regular cleanings help maintain results. Ask the dentist what to expect for your situation.
Does whitening cause sensitivity?
Temporary sensitivity is a common side effect and usually fades after treatment ends. Desensitizing toothpaste and spacing out sessions may help. Let the office know if sensitivity is severe or does not improve after stopping whitening.
Can I use store-bought whitening products?
Some over-the-counter products may lighten teeth slightly, but results and fit vary. It is worth having an exam first to check for decay or gum issues. The dentist can compare professional and store-bought options with you.
Related cosmetic planning
Cosmetic Dentistry →Cosmetic Dental Consultations →
Not sure whether whitening, bonding or veneers fits your goal? A cosmetic consultation lets Selkirk patients compare options with our Port Dover dentist.
Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite, porcelain and ceramic restorations repair damaged teeth while blending in. Selkirk patients can compare tooth-coloured options at our Port Dover office.