Teeth Whitening

What is tooth whitening?‍

Tooth whitening is a very effective cosmetic treatment which involves bleaching your teeth to lighten the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. Our tooth whitening kits are professionally prescribed home kits which are safe and effective leaving you with a brighter and whiter smile within a few weeks!

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.

‍What does tooth whitening involve?

Professional whitening is prescribed here at Williams Dental Care if you are suitable for treatment.First, the dental team will need to ensure you are dentally fit, which will most likely involve a full examination of your teeth and gums. The whitening process then consists of an impression (mould) of your full arches. Your impressions are then sent to the laboratory where they custom make your whitening trays, this usually takes around two weeks to receive back. Once we have you booked in for the fitting of your whitening trays, your dental team will ensure they are fitting well while also being comfortable and will demonstrate how to use the at-home kits. Full instructions with images are given with our professional kits and usually, you will wear the fitted whitening trays overnight, however, we do have a day solution. It's a straightforward, quick treatment with a great result achieved! 

‍What is the difference between professional and non professional teeth whitening treatment?

Professional whitening is prescribed by our dental professionals because it is fast, effective, and safe, and it is overseen by your dentist. Non-professional whitening treatments, such as over-the-counter solutions or toothpaste, can be difficult to use and not as effective as professional solutions.  

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 dental team will need to make a mouthguard and will take impressions for this at the first appointment. Once your dental team 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 or overnight, depending on the brand. However, all details will be discussed prior to the fitting of your trays to see which brand suits your lifestyle.

What other procedures are there?

If you are unsuitable for treatment, there is always time to consider composite bonding, veneers or crowns for discoloured or damaged teeth.

How long will my teeth stay whiter?

The effects of whitening 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 dental team for their opinion before you start the treatment.

What are the side effects?

Some people may find that their teeth become sensitive to cold during or after the treatment. Others may have discomfort in the gums, a sore throat, or white patches on the gum line. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing. To decrease sensitivity, it is advised to start using a sensitive toothpaste alongside the whitening process.

There is a chance that these products could damage your teeth and gums if you are not dentally fit. Because tooth whitening is a complicated procedure we advise that you always talk to your dentist before starting the treatment.

What about whitening toothpaste?

There are several whitening toothpastes on the market. Although they do not affect the natural colour of your teeth, they may be effective at removing staining. Therefore, they may improve the overall appearance of your teeth. Whitening toothpastes may also help the effect to last, once your teeth have been professionally whitened.

Can a single tooth which has been root-filled be whitened?

Yes. Sometimes, dead teeth become discoloured after a root filling. If the tooth has been root treated, the canal (which contains the nerve) may be reopened. The whitening product is applied from the inside to whiten the tooth, also known as internal whitening. This is a great option to improve the single shade and bring it up to the existing teeth. 

‍When might tooth whitening not work?

Tooth whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. Also it only works on natural teeth. It will not work on any types of ‘false' teeth such as dentures, crowns and veneers.

How can I look after my teeth once they have been whitened?

You can help keep your teeth white by reducing the amount of food and drinks you have that can stain teeth. Don't forget that stopping smoking can also help prevent discolouration and staining.

We recommend the following tips to take care of your teeth:

Brush your teeth last night and at least one other time during the day, with fluoride toothpaste.

Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks.

Visit your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend.