If you have been wondering about a whiter smile, know that you are not alone. Yes, teeth lose their brightness, often caused by coffee, tea, smoking or just due to the aging process. Fortunately, safe and effective options are available for restoring your smile. You may be wondering, what do dental hygienists use to whiten teeth? Dental hygienists usually suggest professional whitening options done at the dental hygienist clinic or home kits with a custom fit for whitening that is safe and effective at lifting stains and whitening teeth.
In this blog, we will break down whitening options suggested by dental professionals and how to keep a clean and brighter smile over time.
What Options Do Dental Hygienists Use for Whitening Teeth?
If you are wondering what dental hygienists typically use to brighten your smile, here are two of the most readily available options they suggest:
1. In-clinic whitening treatments
- Performed during your dental visit
- Stronger than store-bought options.
- Fast results, often in one visit.
2. Take-home whitening kits
- Custom dental trays made for your mouth
- Safe bleaching gel with instructions
- Wear for a few weeks at home
3. Over-the-Counter Products
These are not as strong but can be helpful if used correctly:
- Whitening strips
- Whitening toothpaste
- Whitening pens
| Option | Where It’s Done | Results Timeline | Strength |
| In-clinic treatment | Dental Hygienist | 1–2 sessions | Very strong |
| Take-home trays | At home | 1–2 weeks | Moderate-strong |
| OTC Products | At home | Several weeks/months | Mild |
A dental hygienist near you will always recommend what’s safest and most effective for your teeth based on your oral health and habits.
Can Yellow Teeth Become White Again?
Yes, unless the discoloration is from inside the tooth or caused by damage.
Here’s how whitening can help:
- Surface stains from food, drinks, or smoking can be removed or lightened.
- Deeper stains may take more time, but can still improve with professional care.
- Regular cleanings and good brushing habits keep stains from building up again.
- For very dark stains, sometimes whitening alone isn’t enough. In such cases, your dental hygienist may recommend options like bonding or veneers.
- It’s also important to avoid staining foods and drinks after whitening to maintain your results.
- Using a straw for beverages like coffee or juice can help minimize contact with teeth.
Whitening results vary from person to person, so realistic expectations and professional guidance are key.
What Should You Do Before Whitening Your Teeth?
Before starting any whitening treatment, dental hygienists usually suggest:
- Getting a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Checking for cavities or gum problems to avoid discomfort
- Talking about your goals will help you choose the right method.
These steps make sure your teeth are healthy enough for whitening and that the results are even and effective. A healthy foundation helps the whitening agents work better and last longer. It also reduces the risk of sensitivity or irritation during the process. Personalized guidance ensures you choose a treatment that fits your lifestyle and expectations. If you’re considering teeth whitening in Calgary, these steps are important to make sure your results are even, safe, and tailored to your needs.
What Do Dental Hygienists Suggest to Keep Teeth White?
Once you’ve whitened your teeth, here are tips from a dental hygienist in Calgary to maintain your smile:
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush
- Use whitening toothpaste 2–3 times a week (not daily)
- Rinse your mouth after drinking coffee, tea, or red wine.
- Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Visit a dental hygienist every 6 months for checkups and cleanings.
Taking these steps helps protect your teeth and extend your whitening results.
Brighten Your Smile with Serenity Smiles
Ready to bring out your brightest smile? Serenity Smiles is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for advice, a safe in-clinic treatment, or a custom take-home kit, our friendly team is ready to help you feel confident in your smile. Book your appointment today and let our caring team show you how simple and safe it can be to get a whiter, healthier smile.
Call now or visit Serenity Smiles online to schedule your visit. Your brighter smile is just one visit away!
