What does treatment involve?
Your teeth are whitened by the application of a special gel to the tooth surface. The whitening agent is either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide which, as it breaks down, releases oxygen. The oxygen permeates through the tooth enamel to remove the stains.
Your teeth will initially need to be assessed to determine that you are suitable for treatment. If you have any areas of decay or unhealthy gums then these must be treated first.
Is it safe?
The procedure is entirely safe although some patients may experience transient sensitivity.
How long will my teeth stay white?
Results may last up to 18 months depending on dietary habits, and smoking will have a detrimental effect. It is recommended to use a top up home treatment for a couple of applications every 3 months.
Teeth Whitening Solihull
Tooth whitening can be a highly effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth. It cannot make a complete colour change, as veneers can, but it will noticeably lighten the existing shade without any damage to your teeth.
Very few people have brilliantly white teeth. We are all different and tooth colour varies between individuals, like hair colour. As we age teeth can become stained by various foods and drink, habits like smoking, or through poor oral hygiene methods.
There are two popular methods of teeth whitening.
Home whitening
Whitening can be carried out over a few weeks with the use of laboratory constructed ultra-thin plastic trays. An impression of your teeth is taken and a week later you are shown how to use the gel in your bespoke trays. The trays must be worn for two hours a day or overnight, depending on the strength and type of gel being used. Treatment usually takes 2-4 weeks, darker teeth needing a longer time. Some patients with very dark teeth may require treatment over a few months. Results do vary, and in some cases where the enamel is affected by fluorosis or tetracycline staining, not all discolorations are removed, although there will be a significant improvement. Photos of your teeth are taken before and after treatment so that you can see a record of the change which occurs.
Free confidential consultation
Clare offers a free consultationon prior to all teeth whitening treatments to chat about your concerns, assess your needs and answer any questions you may have.
