Tooth Whitening
Before
After
What is tooth whitening and why would I want my teeth whitening?
Tooth whitening can be a highly effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. It cannot make a complete colour change; but it may lighten the existing shade.
Very few people have brilliant white teeth and our teeth can become more discoloured as we get older. Your teeth can also be stained on the surface through food and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant. Another factor which can stain the teeth is smoking. Tooth whitening lightens teeth and helps to remove these stains and discoloration.
What does tooth whitening involve?
Professional bleaching is the most common form of tooth whitening. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment.
Firstly the dentist will take an alginate impression of your teeth which will be sent off to a lab to make a whitening tray which is specific to your individual mouth. This tray fits in your mouth like a retainer. Once this tray is returned approximately 10 working days later you will have a second appointment to collect the trays and given instructions on how to use the bleach.
We use the Boutique Whitening system at our practice which comes with everything you see below to get you started on your tooth whitening journey. The initial kit
Risks
Whitening is unlikely to cause serious side effects, although some people's teeth may become more sensitive. You may get mild gum irritation as well. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing.
How long will my teeth stay white?
Results vary from person to person. The effect is less likely to last as long if you smoke, or eat or drink products that can stain your teeth. This treatment does not give a permanent effect and may need a 'top up' after a certain period of time to improve the shade again.
Air Polishing
Another way to get your teeth whiter is to remove any surface stains
Air polishing uses a fine spray of air, water and particles to clean any tough stains off your teeth.
This is particularly good for patients who smoke or drink a lot of coffee or tea.
Many things in our diet can leave stains on our teeth.
Your dentist can talk to you more about this treatment if it is suitable for you.
Watch the video below to see how Air Polishing works.
