If you’ve been searching for a teeth whitening dentist in Calgary, you’re likely curious about what actually happens at that first appointment—and how to get the best, longest-lasting results.
At Eau Claire Park Dental, we aim to make your whitening experience both comfortable and results-driven. Here’s what you can expect at your in-office appointment.
TL;DR: Here’s What Happens at Your First Whitening Appointment
Your visit begins with a quick oral health check to ensure whitening is right for you. From there, we apply protective gel, a professional-strength whitening agent, and complete up to four 15-minute light-activated cycles. Expect visible results in one visit. For gradual whitening and easy at-home touch-ups, custom trays are often the more flexible long-term option. We’ll help you decide what works best for your smile.
Watch: One-Hour Whitening in Action
Join Dr. Jennifer Graas as she walks through our evidence-based, one-hour in-office whitening treatment.
What to Expect During Your Whitening Session
Every whitening treatment follows our precise protocol designed for safety, comfort, and lasting brightness.
- Comprehensive Evaluation
We begin with an oral health check to confirm whitening is appropriate and address any issues (like cavities or sensitivity) before treatment. - Personalized Treatment Plan
Your smile is unique, so we tailor your plan according to:- Type and severity of stains
- Current tooth shade and sensitivity levels
- Oral hygiene habits and overall dental health
- Dietary factors (coffee, tea, red wine)
- Existing restorations and past whitening history
- Gum Protection & Gel Application
A barrier gel is placed along your gum line to protect soft tissue. Then, we apply a professional-strength whitening gel to your teeth.Our practice uses Opalescence by Ultradent, a professional-strength whitening gel specially formulated with fluoride, potassium nitrate, and 20% water to reduce sensitivity. Its thicker consistency also keeps the gel in place, so it won’t flow onto your gums and cause irritation. - Light Activation
Using a specialized light, we enhance the gel’s effectiveness in 15-minute cycles—usually up to three cycles per session. - Rinse & Final Shade Check
After your final cycle, we rinse away the gel and compare your new shade to the original so you can see your immediate results. - At-Home Maintenance
After treatment, we’ll walk you through at-home care routines, touch-up options, and how to preserve your results long term.
Custom Take-Home Trays vs. In-Office Whitening
We often recommend custom take-home trays as a first choice for patients, and here’s why:
→ Superior, Gradual Results
Take-home trays deliver controlled, even whitening over 1–2 weeks, often achieving 6–8 shades lighter. Because you wear them at home, you can stop when you reach your ideal brightness. And you can easily refresh your smile with gel refills.
→ Less Sensitivity
Our professional gel is buffered to minimize sensitivity. The lower peroxide concentration of take-home treatment is gentler on enamel and nerves.
→ Long-Term Convenience
Whitening naturally fades over time. With custom trays, quick at-home touch-ups let you maintain your results without another office visit.
When In-Office Whitening Is Your Best Choice
For patients who need a rapid boost, like before a special event, in-office whitening can brighten your teeth by 4–6 shades in a single 60–90-minute session.
It’s important to keep in mind that in-office whitening uses a higher peroxide concentration, which can lead to temporary sensitivity. For that reason we generally avoid in-office treatment for anyone with known sensitivity issues.
If you’re short on time and don’t anticipate consistent home use, in-office whitening can be an effective one-and-done option. However, for most patients, custom trays offer the best combination of comfort, control, and lasting value.
Need Guidance on Teeth Whitening Providers?
See our guide: Tips for Finding the Best Teeth Whitening Service Near You
Your Teeth Whitening Questions, Answered
How long will my whitening results last?
With proper at-home maintenance, like at-home tray touch-ups, and by avoiding heavily staining foods, our patients can enjoy their brightened smiles for up to two years.
Do you recommend custom take-home trays?
Absolutely! Custom trays deliver a more gradual, even whitening with less sensitivity, fewer chair-time visits, and the ability to keep your results fresh at home simply by reapplying gel when you notice slight fading.
Will my existing crowns or veneers whiten along with my natural teeth?
Restorative materials (crowns, veneers, fillings) do not bleach. We recommend planning your whitening first so you can match any restorations afterward for a seamless, all-natural smile.
What causes post-whitening sensitivity, and how can I manage it?
Sensitivity comes from peroxide penetrating enamel to break up stains. Our Opalescence gel is buffered with fluoride and potassium nitrate and contains 20% water to minimize this effect. We’ll also recommend desensitizing toothpaste or gel if needed.
Are there foods or drinks I should avoid after whitening?
To preserve your results, avoid or minimize coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and sauces for at least 48 hours after treatment. Afterward, use a straw for staining beverages whenever possible.
How many shades whiter can I expect, and what influences my results?
In-office treatments typically lift teeth 4–6 shades in a single 60–90-minute session, while custom take-home trays can achieve 6–8 shades over 1–2 weeks of daily wear. Whitening is a cosmetic procedure, and your commitment plays a key role. Consistently following your customized plan and aftercare instructions helps maximize your final shade.
Elevate Your Teeth Whitening Knowledge
Download Dr. Graas’ free e-book for an insider’s look at safe, effective teeth whitening.
Everything You Need to Know About Whitening Your Teeth →
Choosing the Right Teeth Whitening Dentist for You
When asked what they’d most like to change about their smile, patients consistently say “whiter teeth.”
At Eau Claire Park Dental, we offer evidence-based whitening systems designed to deliver enduring brightness while safeguarding tooth health. Every treatment, whether custom take-home trays or in-office sessions, is tailored to your goals, so you can enjoy a luminous smile without compromising comfort or enamel integrity.
Ready to brighten your smile safely and effectively? Request a consultation with our team today.
