Take-Home Teeth Whitening Instructions That Work
Congratulations on starting your professional take-home teeth whitening treatment with Bronte Road Family Dental in Oakville.
Custom whitening trays are one of the safest and most effective ways to brighten your smile at home. Because your trays are made specifically for your teeth, the whitening gel stays where it is needed, providing more even results than many over-the-counter products.
This guide explains how to use your whitening kit, what to expect during treatment, and how to minimize sensitivity.
How Professional Take-Home Whitening Works
Your whitening kit contains a professional-strength whitening gel with 22% carbamide peroxide.
The whitening gel penetrates beneath the surface of your enamel to break down stain molecules inside the tooth. Unlike whitening toothpastes, which only remove surface stains, professional whitening changes the overall shade of your natural teeth.
Professional in office teeth whitening is considered safe when used according to your dentist’s instructions and has minimal effect on healthy tooth enamel.
Before You Begin
Before each whitening session:
- Brush and floss your teeth.
- Make sure your whitening trays are clean and dry.
- Wash your hands.
- Avoid placing too much gel in the trays.
Using more whitening gel will not whiten your teeth faster and may increase gum irritation or tooth sensitivity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Apply the Whitening Gel
Place a small drop of whitening gel into each tooth reservoir inside the tray.
You only need enough gel to cover the front surface of each tooth.
Step 2: Insert the Trays
Carefully place the trays onto your teeth.
Gently press them into place.
If excess gel comes out along your gums, wipe it away with a tissue, cotton swab, or gauze.
Step 3: Wear the Trays
Wear your trays for 45 minutes to 2 hours, or as recommended by your dentist.
Do not:
- Eat
- Drink anything except water
- Smoke or vape
- Chew gum
while wearing the trays.
Step 4: Remove and Clean
After whitening:
- Remove the trays.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
- Rinse the trays using cool or lukewarm water.
- Gently brush the trays with a soft toothbrush.
- Allow them to dry before storing them in their protective case.
Avoid using hot water, as it may distort the trays.
How Long Does Whitening Take?
Most patients begin noticing improvement after three to five applications.
Results vary depending on:
- Your natural tooth colour.
- The type of staining.
- How consistently the trays are worn.
- Your diet during treatment.
Yellow or brown stains usually respond better than grey or internally stained teeth.
Some patients may require additional whitening sessions to achieve their desired shade.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid During Whitening
During treatment, try to limit foods and beverages that commonly stain teeth.
These include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Cola
- Sports drinks
- Curry
- Soy sauce
- Tomato sauce
- Berries
- Dark juices
Smoking and tobacco use can also reduce whitening results.
A helpful rule is this:
If it can stain a white shirt, it can stain your teeth.
Is Tooth Sensitivity Normal?
Yes.
Temporary sensitivity is the most common side effect of teeth whitening.
You may notice:
- Sensitivity to cold drinks.
- Brief sharp sensations.
- Mild tenderness.
This usually improves shortly after treatment ends.
If sensitivity develops:
- Skip whitening for one or two days.
- Switch to whitening every other day.
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth containing potassium nitrate and fluoride.
- Leave a thin layer of toothpaste on your teeth after brushing instead of rinsing immediately.
Remember that sensitivity toothpaste often takes one to two weeks to become fully effective.
If sensitivity becomes severe or lasts longer than expected, stop whitening and contact our office.
Whitening Toothpaste vs. Professional Whitening
Many patients wonder whether whitening toothpaste provides similar results.
The answer is no.
Whitening toothpastes mainly remove surface stains using mild abrasives.
Professional whitening gel works inside the tooth to lighten its natural colour.
Overusing abrasive whitening toothpastes may contribute to enamel wear and gum recession over time, especially if combined with aggressive brushing.
How to Keep Your Teeth White Longer
After completing treatment, you can help maintain your results by:
- Brushing twice daily.
- Flossing every day.
- Limiting stain-causing foods and drinks.
- Drinking water after coffee or wine.
- Avoiding tobacco products.
- Scheduling regular dental cleanings.
Many patients perform occasional touch-up whitening every 6 to 12 months, depending on their lifestyle and eating habits.
Your dentist can recommend the best schedule for you.
Caring for Your Whitening Trays
Your custom trays are designed to last for many years if cared for properly.
To extend their life:
- Clean them after every use.
- Store them in their protective case.
- Keep them away from heat.
- Do not bend or fold them.
- Bring them to future whitening appointments if requested.
If your teeth move significantly or you have dental treatment such as crowns, veneers, or orthodontics, your trays may no longer fit properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I whiten my teeth every day?
Yes, if you are following your dentist’s instructions and are not experiencing significant sensitivity.
What if I miss a day?
Simply continue your whitening treatment the next day. Missing one session will not affect your overall results.
Can crowns, veneers, or fillings be whitened?
No. Whitening only changes the colour of natural teeth. Existing dental restorations will remain the same shade.
What if the whitening gel touches my gums?
A small amount usually isn’t harmful, but it may cause temporary irritation. Remove excess gel as soon as possible.
How should I store my whitening gel?
Store your whitening gel according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many professional whitening products should be refrigerated until use. Check the label or ask our team if you’re unsure.
Questions?
If you have questions during your whitening treatment or experience unexpected sensitivity, please contact Bronte Road Family Dental.
Phone: (905) 465-0026
Email: ask@oakvillefamilydental.com
We’re always happy to help you achieve a brighter, natural-looking smile safely and comfortably. We also offer professional teeth whitening in Oakville.
