Tooth
Whitening FAQ –
What is tooth 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 will lighten the existing shade.
Why would I need my teeth whitened?
There are a number of reasons why you might get
your teeth whitened. Everyone is different; and
just as our hair and skin colour vary, so do our
teeth. Very few people have brilliant-white teeth,
and our teeth can also 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. Smoking can also stain teeth.
Calculus or tartar can also affect the colour of teeth. Some people may have
staining under the surface, which can be caused by certain antibiotics or tiny
cracks in the teeth which take up stains.
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,
and will supervise it if you are. First the dentist
will put a rubber shield or a gel on your gums
to protect the soft tissue. They will then apply
the whitening product to your teeth, using a specially
made tray which fits into your mouth like a gum-shield.
The ‘active ingredient’ in the product
is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen
gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth
colour is made lighter.
How long does this take?
The total treatment can usually be done within
three to four weeks. First, you will need two or
three visits to the dentist. Your dentist will
need to make a mouthguard and will take impressions
for this at the first appointment. Once your dentist
has started the treatment, you will need to continue
the treatment at home. This means regularly applying
the whitening product over two to four weeks, for
30 minutes to one hour at a time.
However, there are now some new products which can be applied for up to eight
hours at a time. This means a satisfactory result can be achieved in as little
as one week.
How long will my teeth stay whiter?
The effects of whitening can last up to three
years. However, this will 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. Ask your dentist for their opinion
before you start the treatment.
How can I look after my teeth once they have
been whitened?
You can help to keep your
teeth white by cutting down on the amount of
food and drink you have that can stain teeth.
Don’t forget, stopping smoking
can also help prevent discolouring and staining.
We recommend the following tips to care for your teeth:
- brush your teeth twice
a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- cut down on how often you have sugary
snacks and drinks
- visit your dentist at least
once a year.
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