Oral Health

A brighter smile is one of the most requested cosmetic dental goals, and teeth whitening remains a popular way to improve the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth. Whether your teeth have become darker due to coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, or the natural aging process, professional whitening treatments can help restore a whiter smile. One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to choose in-office whitening or a take-home whitening kit provided by your dentist.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Burnaby, understanding the differences between these two options can help you select the treatment that best matches your goals, lifestyle, and schedule. Both methods are effective when supervised by a dental professional, but each offers its own advantages.

What Causes Teeth to Become Stained?

Tooth discoloration can occur for many reasons. Some stains develop on the surface of the teeth, while others occur inside the tooth over time.

Common causes include:

• Coffee, tea, and red wine.
• Tobacco use.
• Aging.
• Certain medications.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Foods and drinks with strong pigments.

Professional whitening treatments are designed to reduce many of these stains while helping your smile appear brighter.

What Is In-Office Teeth Whitening?

In-office teeth whitening is performed by a dental professional during a scheduled appointment. A professional-strength whitening gel is carefully applied to the teeth while the gums and surrounding tissues are protected throughout the procedure.

Many patients notice a brighter smile after just one visit, making this option appealing for people who want quicker results.

Benefits of In-Office Teeth Whitening

• Noticeable results in a single appointment.
• Professional supervision throughout treatment.
• Even application of the whitening solution.
• Customized treatment based on your oral health.
• Reduced risk of gum irritation compared with improper at-home products.

What Is Take-Home Teeth Whitening?

Take-home whitening uses custom-made trays designed to fit your teeth. Your dentist provides professional whitening gel along with instructions on how to safely complete the treatment at home over several days or weeks.

This option allows you to whiten your teeth at your own pace while still benefiting from professional guidance.

Benefits of Take-Home Whitening Kits

• Convenient treatment schedule.
• Gradual whitening results.
• Custom-fitted trays for improved comfort.
• Professional-strength whitening gel.
• Easy touch-up treatments when recommended.

If you’re considering Teeth Whitening in Burnaby, your dentist can help determine which approach best suits your smile goals.

How Do the Results Compare?

Both in-office and take-home whitening treatments can produce excellent results. The biggest difference is the speed at which the results appear.

In-office whitening typically provides faster improvements because stronger whitening agents are applied under professional supervision. Take-home systems produce gradual changes, allowing patients to brighten their smiles over a longer period.

Which Option Is Better for Sensitive Teeth?

Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity after whitening. If you already have sensitive teeth, your dentist may recommend adjustments to your treatment plan or suggest a take-home option with a slower whitening process.

Before whitening begins, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough for treatment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Professional Teeth Whitening?

You may benefit from whitening if you have:

• Healthy teeth and gums.
• Surface stains from food or beverages.
• Yellowing caused by aging.
• No untreated cavities or gum disease.

Whitening may not be effective for certain types of internal discoloration or dental restorations such as crowns and veneers.

How Can You Maintain a Brighter Smile?

Good oral hygiene and healthy habits help your whitening results last longer.

• Brush twice daily.
• Floss every day.
• Limit coffee, tea, and red wine.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Drink water after stain-causing beverages.
• Attend regular dental checkups.

Routine dental care in Burnaby also helps remove surface stains and maintain your overall oral health.

Can Over-the-Counter Whitening Products Replace Professional Treatment?

Many whitening products are available without a prescription, but they often contain lower concentrations of whitening ingredients and may not fit your teeth properly. Professional whitening treatments are customized to your smile and include guidance from your dentist to improve safety and effectiveness.

How Do You Choose the Right Whitening Option?

The best choice depends on your goals, timeline, tooth sensitivity, and personal preferences. If you want faster results for a special occasion, in-office whitening may be the better option. If you prefer gradual improvement and greater flexibility, take-home whitening may be more suitable.

Consulting a dentist near you allows you to receive personalized recommendations based on your oral health and cosmetic goals.

Conclusion

Both in-office and take-home teeth whitening can effectively brighten your smile when performed under professional guidance. The right choice depends on how quickly you want results, your lifestyle, and your individual dental needs. A consultation allows your dentist to recommend the option that best suits your smile. If you’re considering professional whitening, the experienced team at Metrotown Family Dentistry can help you choose the most appropriate treatment. Request an Appointment to learn more about achieving a brighter, healthier-looking smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is in-office teeth whitening better than take-home whitening?

Both treatments are effective. In-office whitening typically provides faster results, while take-home whitening offers gradual improvement and greater flexibility. Your dentist can recommend the option that best matches your goals.

How long do professional teeth whitening results last?

Results vary depending on your diet, oral hygiene, and lifestyle. Many patients maintain a brighter smile for several months or longer by avoiding stain-causing foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending regular dental visits.

Does professional teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after whitening, but it usually improves within a short period. Your dentist can recommend products or adjustments to help reduce discomfort if needed.

Can whitening remove all types of stains?

Professional whitening is most effective for stains caused by food, beverages, tobacco, and aging. Some internal stains or discoloration caused by medications may require alternative cosmetic treatments.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes. When performed under the supervision of a dental professional, teeth whitening is considered a safe cosmetic treatment for patients with healthy teeth and gums.

How long does an in-office whitening appointment take?

Most in-office whitening treatments are completed in about 60 to 90 minutes, although the exact time depends on your individual treatment plan and the level of whitening desired.

Who is a good candidate for professional teeth whitening?

People with healthy teeth and gums who want to improve staining or discoloration are often good candidates. A dental examination helps determine whether whitening is the right treatment for your smile.

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but many patients worry about the possibility of nerve damage. While this complication is uncommon, it is understandable to have concerns, especially if your wisdom teeth are located close to important nerves in the jaw. Fortunately, careful planning, advanced dental imaging, and experienced treatment techniques significantly reduce the risk in most cases.

If you’re planning to visit a dentist in NE Calgary for wisdom tooth removal, understanding how nerve injuries are prevented can help you feel more confident about the procedure. Learning what happens before, during, and after treatment also allows you to make informed decisions about your oral health.

What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction is the removal of one or more third molars located at the back of the mouth. These teeth often appear between the ages of 17 and 25. In some people, wisdom teeth grow normally, while in others they may become impacted, partially erupted, or grow at an angle.

When wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, crowding, or damage to nearby teeth, your dentist may recommend removing them.

Why Are Nerves Important During Wisdom Tooth Removal?

The lower wisdom teeth are sometimes located near nerves that provide feeling to the lower lip, chin, tongue, and surrounding tissues. Before recommending treatment, your dentist carefully evaluates the position of these nerves using dental imaging.

The closer the roots are to these nerves, the more carefully the procedure must be planned.

How Common Is Nerve Damage?

Nerve injury during wisdom tooth extraction is uncommon. Most patients recover without any nerve-related complications. In the small number of cases where temporary numbness occurs, sensation often improves gradually as healing progresses.

Permanent nerve damage is rare, particularly when treatment is carefully planned before surgery.

How Dentists Help Reduce the Risk of Nerve Damage

Comprehensive Dental Examination

Before scheduling surgery, your dentist performs a thorough examination to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and determine the safest treatment approach.

Digital Dental X-Rays

Digital X-rays provide detailed images of the wisdom teeth, surrounding bone, and nearby anatomical structures. These images help identify whether the tooth roots are close to important nerves.

Advanced 3D Imaging

When additional detail is needed, your dentist may recommend a three-dimensional scan. This allows precise evaluation of the relationship between the wisdom tooth roots and nearby nerves, making surgical planning even more accurate.

Careful Surgical Technique

During the procedure, your dentist uses gentle techniques to remove the tooth while protecting the surrounding bone, soft tissue, and nearby nerves.

Who Has a Higher Risk?

Certain factors may increase the complexity of wisdom tooth removal, including:

• Deeply impacted wisdom teeth.
• Roots positioned close to nearby nerves.
• Older patients whose roots are fully developed.
• Complex tooth positioning.

Even in these situations, careful planning helps reduce potential risks.

Symptoms That May Occur After Surgery

Temporary symptoms after wisdom tooth extraction are normal and usually improve during healing.

Common symptoms include:

• Mild swelling.
• Jaw stiffness.
• Minor bleeding.
• Soreness around the extraction site.
• Temporary numbness caused by local anesthesia.

Your dentist will explain which symptoms are expected and when you should contact the office.

When Should You Contact Your Dentist?

Although complications are uncommon, contact your dentist if you experience:

• Numbness that continues well beyond the expected recovery period.
• Severe pain that worsens instead of improving.
• Heavy bleeding.
• Signs of infection such as increasing swelling or fever.
• Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth.

Early evaluation helps ensure appropriate care if additional treatment is needed.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Following your dentist’s instructions plays an important role in healing after wisdom tooth removal.

• Rest during the first 24 hours.
• Apply ice packs as recommended.
• Eat soft foods for several days.
• Avoid smoking and drinking through a straw.
• Keep the extraction site clean.
• Take medications exactly as directed.

Proper aftercare supports healing and helps reduce the risk of complications.

Can Wisdom Tooth Problems Be Prevented?

Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to monitor developing wisdom teeth before they begin causing pain or damage. Early evaluation often provides more treatment options and may simplify the extraction process if removal becomes necessary.

Routine dental care in Calgary helps identify potential concerns before they become more complicated.

When Should You Schedule a Wisdom Tooth Evaluation?

You should schedule an examination if you experience pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, repeated infections around your wisdom teeth, or if your dentist recommends monitoring their development.

If you’re considering Wisdom Tooth Extraction in NE Calgary, an early evaluation allows your dentist to determine the safest treatment plan based on your individual anatomy.

Visiting a dentist near you promptly also helps prevent complications associated with impacted or infected wisdom teeth.

Conclusion

Although concerns about nerve damage are understandable, modern diagnostic technology, careful treatment planning, and experienced surgical techniques make wisdom tooth extraction a safe and predictable procedure for most patients. Early evaluation and timely treatment can reduce the likelihood of complications while protecting your long-term oral health. If you have questions about wisdom tooth removal, the experienced team at Memorial Square Dental can assess your individual situation and explain your treatment options. Request an Appointment to receive personalized care and guidance for a comfortable wisdom tooth extraction experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is nerve damage after wisdom tooth extraction?

Nerve damage is uncommon. Most patients heal without experiencing nerve-related complications. When temporary numbness occurs, it often improves gradually over time as the surrounding tissues recover after surgery.

How do dentists check for nerve risk before removing wisdom teeth?

Your dentist uses a clinical examination, digital X-rays, and sometimes three-dimensional imaging to evaluate the position of the wisdom tooth roots in relation to nearby nerves before planning the procedure.

What are the signs of possible nerve injury after wisdom tooth removal?

Persistent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the lower lip, chin, tongue, or surrounding areas after the expected recovery period should be evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible.

Can impacted wisdom teeth increase the risk of nerve damage?

Some impacted wisdom teeth may be located closer to important nerves, making treatment more complex. Careful imaging and surgical planning help reduce potential risks before the extraction begins.

How long does numbness last after wisdom tooth extraction?

Numbness from local anesthesia usually wears off within several hours. If numbness continues for an extended period after surgery, your dentist should evaluate the area to determine the cause.

Does removing wisdom teeth earlier reduce complications?

In many cases, yes. Younger patients often have less developed tooth roots, which may simplify the procedure and reduce the likelihood of certain complications compared with delaying treatment for many years.

How can I support healing after wisdom tooth extraction?

Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, eat soft foods, avoid smoking, maintain good oral hygiene, rest during the first day, and attend any recommended follow-up appointments to promote healthy healing.

Straight teeth can improve more than your smile. Properly aligned teeth are often easier to clean, can reduce uneven wear, and may support better oral health over time. If you’re thinking about orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering whether traditional braces or clear aligners are the better choice. Each option offers unique advantages, and the right treatment depends on your dental needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals.

Speaking with a dentist in Fort McMurray is the best way to determine which solution is appropriate for your smile. A professional evaluation can help you understand the benefits, limitations, and expected treatment timeline for each option.

Why Straightening Your Teeth Matters

Orthodontic treatment is about more than appearance. Properly aligned teeth can make brushing and flossing easier, improve your bite, and reduce pressure on certain teeth. In some cases, correcting alignment may also help reduce jaw discomfort and uneven tooth wear.

Common reasons people choose teeth straightening include:

• Crooked or crowded teeth.
• Spaces between teeth.
• Overbite or underbite.
• Crossbite.
• Difficulty cleaning between teeth.

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets attached to the teeth and connected by wires. These components gradually move teeth into better positions through carefully controlled pressure over time. Braces remain one of the most effective treatments for correcting mild to complex orthodontic concerns.

Advantages of Braces

• Suitable for simple and complex alignment problems.
• Always working because they remain attached to the teeth.
• No need to remember to wear them.
• Can effectively correct significant bite issues.

Disadvantages of Braces

• More noticeable than clear aligners.
• Food can become trapped around brackets.
• Extra care is needed during brushing and flossing.
• Some foods should be avoided to prevent damage.

Patients considering dental braces in Fort McMurray should discuss the available orthodontic options with their dental provider to determine which treatment best suits their needs.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays that gradually move teeth into their desired positions. Patients wear each set of aligners for a specific period before progressing to the next set in the series.

Because they are nearly invisible, clear aligners have become a popular option for teens and adults seeking a more discreet orthodontic solution.

Advantages of Clear Aligners

• Nearly invisible when worn.
• Removable for eating and brushing.
• No food restrictions.
• Smooth plastic trays are generally comfortable.
• Easy to maintain good oral hygiene.

Disadvantages of Clear Aligners

• Must be worn 20 to 22 hours each day.
• Require strong patient commitment.
• Can be misplaced if removed frequently.
• May not be suitable for every complex orthodontic case.

Braces vs. Aligners: A Quick Comparison

Appearance

Clear aligners are much less noticeable than traditional braces, making them a popular choice for adults and older teens.

Comfort

Both treatments involve pressure as teeth move. However, aligners generally have smooth edges that may cause less irritation to the cheeks and lips than brackets and wires.

Eating

Braces require avoiding sticky, hard, and chewy foods that can damage brackets. Clear aligners are removed during meals, allowing patients to continue enjoying most foods.

Cleaning

Brushing and flossing are often easier with removable aligners. Braces require extra attention to clean around brackets and wires thoroughly.

Treatment Time

The length of treatment depends on the complexity of each case rather than the appliance itself. Mild cases may finish more quickly, while complex bite corrections often require longer treatment.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The best orthodontic treatment depends on several factors, including:

• The severity of your alignment concerns.
• Your age.
• Your daily routine.
• Your willingness to wear removable aligners consistently.
• Your overall oral health.

An examination allows your dental provider to recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your individual needs.

How to Care for Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

Regardless of which treatment you choose, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential.

• Brush thoroughly after meals.
• Floss every day.
• Attend regular dental checkups.
• Avoid chewing hard objects.
• Follow your dentist’s treatment instructions carefully.

If you’re considering Invisalign near you, following the recommended daily wear time is essential for keeping your treatment on schedule and achieving the desired results.

When Should You Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation?

You may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation if you notice crowded teeth, spacing, bite problems, difficulty cleaning between teeth, or concerns about your smile’s appearance. Early assessment allows treatment to begin at the most appropriate time and may help prevent future complications.

If you’re unsure which treatment option is best, visiting a dentist near you can provide personalized recommendations based on your oral health, smile goals, and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Both braces and clear aligners are effective ways to straighten teeth and improve oral health. The right choice depends on your dental needs, treatment goals, and personal preferences. A professional evaluation can help you make an informed decision and create a treatment plan that’s right for you. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, the experienced team at Pyramid Dental can assess your smile and recommend the most suitable option. Request an Appointment to learn more about your teeth straightening options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear aligners as effective as braces?

Clear aligners are highly effective for many mild to moderate alignment concerns. However, traditional braces may be a better choice for more complex orthodontic cases involving significant bite corrections or severe tooth movement.

How long does teeth straightening usually take?

Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of each case. Many patients complete treatment within 12 to 24 months, although some mild cases may finish sooner and more complex cases may require additional time.

Do braces hurt more than clear aligners?

Both treatments may cause temporary discomfort when teeth begin moving or after adjustments. Braces may occasionally irritate the cheeks or lips, while clear aligners generally have smoother surfaces that many patients find more comfortable.

Can I eat normally with clear aligners?

Yes. Clear aligners are removed before eating and drinking anything except water. This allows you to continue enjoying most foods without the dietary restrictions often associated with traditional braces.

Which option is easier to keep clean?

Clear aligners are generally easier to clean because they can be removed before brushing and flossing. Braces require extra care to clean around brackets and wires to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay.

Are braces or aligners better for teenagers?

Both treatments can be excellent options for teenagers. The best choice depends on the child’s orthodontic needs and whether they are likely to wear removable aligners consistently throughout the day.

Can adults straighten their teeth?

Yes. Adults of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment if their teeth and gums are healthy. Both braces and clear aligners are commonly used to improve alignment, function, and overall smile appearance.

A root canal is performed to remove infection and relieve dental pain, so it can be concerning when your tooth still hurts afterward. Many patients expect immediate relief, but some discomfort during the healing process is completely normal. If you recently had treatment and are experiencing pain, understanding the possible reasons can help you know what to expect and when to seek professional care.

If you are looking for a dentist in Calgary because your tooth continues to hurt after treatment, it is important to remember that healing times vary from person to person. In many cases, mild soreness improves within a few days, while more significant pain may require a follow-up evaluation.

During root canal treatment in Calgary, the infected tissue inside the tooth is removed, and the canals are cleaned and sealed. Although the source of infection is eliminated, the surrounding tissues may remain irritated for a short period. This temporary inflammation can cause tenderness, especially when biting or chewing.

Is Pain After a Root Canal Normal?

Yes, some discomfort after a root canal is usually normal. The procedure involves cleaning deep inside the tooth and the surrounding root system, which can temporarily irritate nearby tissues.

Common symptoms during recovery may include:

• Mild aching around the treated tooth
• Sensitivity when chewing
• Tenderness in the surrounding gums
• Minor swelling near the treatment area
• Temporary jaw soreness from keeping the mouth open during treatment

Most of these symptoms gradually improve within several days to a couple of weeks.

Common Reasons Your Tooth Hurts After a Root Canal

Inflammation Around the Root Tip

Even after the infected pulp is removed, the tissues surrounding the root may remain inflamed. The body’s healing response can cause soreness and pressure around the treated tooth. This is one of the most common causes of post-treatment discomfort.

The Tooth Was Severely Infected Before Treatment

If the infection was extensive before the procedure, the surrounding bone and tissues may need additional time to heal. In these cases, discomfort may last longer than expected but should gradually improve over time.

A High Filling or Crown

Sometimes the temporary or permanent restoration placed on the tooth may sit slightly higher than the surrounding teeth. When this happens, excessive pressure occurs during biting, leading to pain and sensitivity.

A simple adjustment by your dentist can often resolve this issue quickly.

Normal Healing Sensitivity

The tissues around the tooth contain nerves and ligaments that can become irritated during treatment. As these tissues recover, you may notice sensitivity when chewing or touching the area.

Cracks or Structural Damage

In some cases, a tooth may have an existing crack that was not causing symptoms before treatment. After the root canal, the crack may continue to cause discomfort, particularly when biting down.

How Long Should Pain Last After a Root Canal?

Recovery timelines vary depending on the condition of the tooth and the extent of the infection.

• First 24–72 hours: Mild to moderate soreness is common.
• One week: Most discomfort begins to improve.
• Two weeks: Many patients feel significantly better.
• Several weeks: Healing continues in deeper tissues around the root.

If pain worsens rather than improves, it may indicate that additional evaluation is needed.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While mild discomfort is expected, certain symptoms should not be ignored.

Contact a dental professional if you experience:

• Severe pain that does not improve
• Significant swelling in the face or gums
• Pain that worsens after several days
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Fever or signs of infection
• A pimple-like bump on the gums

These symptoms may indicate persistent infection, a cracked tooth, or another issue that requires attention.

Can a Root Canal Fail?

Root canals have a high success rate, but no dental procedure is successful in every situation. Occasionally, bacteria may remain in hard-to-reach areas of the root canal system, or a new infection may develop later.

Potential reasons for ongoing pain include:

• Missed canal anatomy
• New decay affecting the treated tooth
• A cracked root
• Delayed placement of a permanent restoration
• Reinfection due to a damaged filling or crown

Fortunately, many of these issues can be treated successfully when identified early.

What Can You Do to Relieve the Pain?

There are several ways to manage discomfort while your tooth heals.

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

Take any prescribed medications exactly as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Avoid Hard Foods

Chewing hard or crunchy foods on the treated side can place extra pressure on the tooth and delay healing.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing and flossing carefully around the treatment area to prevent bacteria from accumulating.

Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up visits allow your dental team to monitor healing and address any concerns before they become more serious. If discomfort persists and you are searching for a dentist near you, scheduling an evaluation can help determine whether the pain is part of normal healing or a sign of an underlying issue.

Your Next Step Toward Relief

Most post-root canal discomfort is temporary and improves as the surrounding tissues heal. However, persistent or worsening pain should always be evaluated to ensure there are no complications affecting recovery. If you continue to experience discomfort after root canal treatment in Calgary, the team at Centre and 12th Dental can assess your situation, answer your questions, and recommend the most appropriate next steps. Request an Appointment to have your symptoms evaluated and receive personalized guidance for a comfortable recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my tooth throb after a root canal?

Throbbing pain often occurs because the tissues surrounding the root are still inflamed after treatment. This inflammation is usually part of the healing process and gradually improves over several days. Persistent or worsening throbbing should be evaluated by a dental professional.

How many days of pain is normal after a root canal?

Mild discomfort can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks, depending on the severity of the original infection and individual healing factors. Most patients notice steady improvement during the first week following treatment.

Can a tooth still be infected after a root canal?

Although root canals are highly successful, infection can occasionally persist or return. This may happen if bacteria remain in complex canal structures or if the tooth develops new decay or damage after treatment.

Why does my root canal tooth hurt when I bite down?

Pain while biting may occur due to inflammation around the root, a high filling or crown, or pressure on healing tissues. In some situations, a crack in the tooth may also contribute to discomfort during chewing.

Should I take pain medication after a root canal?

Many patients benefit from over-the-counter pain relievers or medications recommended by their dentist. These can help reduce inflammation and manage temporary discomfort during the healing process. Always follow professional instructions regarding medication use.

When should I call my dentist after a root canal?

You should contact your dentist if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, fever, difficulty chewing, or symptoms that worsen instead of improving. Early evaluation can help identify and address potential complications before they become more serious.

Can I eat normally after a root canal?

It is generally best to wait until numbness wears off before eating. Soft foods are recommended initially, and patients should avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until the tooth has healed and any permanent restoration has been completed.