We all wish to have a brighter smile, not just in photos, but also in our confidence and comfort, and to feel good when we laugh or speak.
If you are thinking of getting teeth whitening but are not sure about how it works or what to expect, then you are not alone.
Several patients feel nervous before their appointment for teeth whitening in Sherwood Park, especially when it is about their sensitivity, aftercare, and results.
This blog covers everything about it and helps you walk through the process to help you feel prepared and walk out with a bright smile.
Before Your Whitening Appointment: What to Expect
1. A Quick Dental Check and Cleaning
Before whitening, your dentist will check your teeth and gums. Any plaque or tartar will need to be cleaned first for the whitening gel to work evenly.
This is also where your dentist in Sherwood Park will confirm whether whitening is right for you.
2. Avoid Staining Foods for 24–48 Hours
Coffee, tea, berries, wine, and foods with strong colours can affect your baseline shade. Cutting them out briefly before treatment helps the whitening gel work better.
3. Reduce Sensitivity Ahead of Time
If you tend to have sensitive teeth, use a sensitivity toothpaste for at least one week before your appointment.
This can make the experience much more comfortable.
During the Treatment: What Happens in the Chair
A whitening appointment is simple and painless. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Your gums and lips are protected.
- A whitening gel is applied to your teeth.
- A light may be used to activate the gel, depending on the system.
- The process usually takes 45–90 minutes.
Most patients leave the clinic with a noticeably brighter smile the same day.
After Your Whitening Treatment: Care Matters
1. Follow the “White Diet” for 24–48 Hours
After whitening, your enamel is temporarily more porous. That means staining foods can undo the results right away.
Avoid:
- Coffee & tea
- Red wine
- Cola
- Soy sauce
- Curries
- Berries
- Dark sauces
Good options include eggs, rice, chicken, fish, bananas, milk, and cauliflower.
2. Expect Temporary Sensitivity
It is normal to experience sensitivity during the first few hours or up to 24 hours. Use a toothpaste or fluoride rinse to help calm the sensitivity of your teeth.
3. Maintain Your New Bright Smile
This is when your everyday routine comes into play. Maintaining a bright smile is important, and this is the best time to visit a dentist near you to get cleanings and checkups to achieve results in the long run.
Long-Term Tips to Keep Your Smile Bright
Your lifestyle after whitening plays a huge role in how long your results last. Here’s what works best:
Use a Straw for Dark Drinks
Coffee and iced tea are easier on your smile when you avoid direct contact with your teeth.
Brush and Floss Twice Daily
When you brush and floss daily, your enamel will stay bright and white.
Touch-Up Whitening
At-home trays or occasional in-office maintenance can keep your results fresh.
Visit a Teeth Whitening Near You Provider Regularly
Professional cleanings remove buildup that can make your teeth look dull.
Difference Between In-Office Whitening and At-Home Whitening Kits
| Method | How Fast It Works | Results | Best For |
| In-Office Whitening | 45–90 minutes | Up to several shades lighter | Quick, dramatic results |
| Custom Take-Home Trays | 1–2 weeks | Noticeable and steady | Gradual whitening |
| Store Whitening Strips | Daily use for 1–3 weeks | Mild improvement | Very light staining |
A Brighter Smile Starts Here
If you’re thinking about whitening and want a smooth, comfortable experience with guidance before and after your treatment, Salisbury Dental is here to help.
Our team offers instructions to help you achieve long-lasting results – that is designed to help you feel confident about your smile.
Book your whitening visit with our team today.
FAQs
How long do whitening results last?
Most people enjoy results for 6–12 months, depending on diet and habits.
Is professional whitening safe?
Yes, when supervised by a dental professional, it is safe and effective.
Can whitening damage enamel?
No. Whitening gels do not remove enamel; they temporarily open pores to lift stains.
