Teeth whitening FAQs
Can I afford teeth whitening treatment?
Tooth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure and is therefore usually unavailable through the NHS. At mydentist, we believe everyone should have access to the dental care they need, even for cosmetic purposes.
That's why we offer a range of competitive prices and finance options to make sure as many people as possible can experience the benefits of teeth whitening treatment.
What is the difference between professional and non-professional teeth whitening treatment?
Professional whitening treatments like Enlighten and Philips Zoom! are fast, effective, and safe. As your treatment is administered and overseen by a dental professional, they offer reliable and consistent results.
Alternatively, non-professional whitening treatments, such as over-the-counter solutions can be difficult to use and aren't as effective as professional solutions.
Why should I choose mydentist for my teeth whitening treatment?
- It is natural for your teeth to darken with age - teeth whitening can help bring back brightness
- Many things can stain your teeth, such as smoking or drinking wine, coffee or tea. Teeth whitening can help lessen these stains
- The procedure is safer for you, your teeth, and your gums than over the counter solutions
- Although using whitening toothpaste is a good first step, our professional tooth whitening treatments can restore the brightness of your teeth more effectively
How does teeth whitening treatment work?
Teeth whitening is a process that uses whitening agents to break apart staining on tooth enamel, to whiten your teeth and brighten your smile. Most tooth whitening treatments contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the whitening agents.
What is involved in teeth whitening treatment?
Before you can begin treatment, your dentist will carry out a thorough examination to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy, they will then create a mould or take a scan of your teeth to make a custom tray which fits comfortably in your mouth.
The whitening treatment is then added to this custom tray and placed in the mouth. By wearing this tray a few hours, a day, or overnight, for up to three weeks, you can brighten your teeth. Some whitening treatments can be left on for up to 8 hours at a time, which can shorten the treatment period.
Although, tooth whitening treatment can help to lighten the existing colour of your teeth by several shades, your clinician will discuss the current condition of your teeth with you and make you aware of the realistic outcomes of your whitening treatment.
Is teeth whitening treatment safe?
When performed by a registered dental professional, teeth whitening is safe. The process shouldn't cause discomfort or produce any irritation in your teeth and gums. If you have any concerns, then your practice will be available to provide further advice or support.
Will my teeth be more sensitive after tooth whitening treatment?
It's unlikely that you'll experience any discomfort when having your teeth professionally whitened. Some people find their teeth and gums may become more sensitive during treatment; however, you can use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to reduce any discomfort and your dentist can advise on how to manage any sensitivity.
In rare cases, teeth may be very sensitive during treatment, but they will usually recover when the whitening treatment is stopped. At mydentist, we also offer a product called Philips Zoom!, which contains an ingredient called amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), designed to help reduce sensitivity significantly, and provide extra protection for your enamel, improving the final shine.
How can I make teeth whitening last longer?
Teeth whitening treatments can provide great results, but the whitening effect won't last as long if you regularly smoke, drink red wine, tea or coffee, which can all stain your teeth. Brushing twice a day with whitening toothpaste will help reduce the build-up of stains. Seeing a dental hygienist can also help with managing more stubborn stains and build-up. Top-up treatments are also an effective way to lift stains and restore the whiteness of your teeth.
When might teeth whitening not be suitable?
Prior to having your teeth whitening treatment, your dentist will complete a thorough examination and determine whether teeth whitening is a suitable treatment option for you. There are some restrictions, however:
- Legally you must be 18 or older.
- If you have gum disease or other dental concerns, your dentist may suggest that teeth whitening will not be suitable until you've received further treatment.
- If you have de-calcifications (white spots) on your teeth, these might become more noticeable after whitening. We can address this with treatments, such as ICON, which uses a filling material to help reduce the appearance of white spots.
- Teeth whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Similarly, certain health problems, such as allergies, may mean that teeth whitening is not suitable.
- If you have deep intrinsic staining (e.g., from tetracycline) may be less effective.
Teeth whitening treatment will only work on natural teeth. Artificial teeth, implants, crowns, bridges, fillings and veneers can't be whitened in the same way. Sometimes these can be replaced after treatment to match your new brighter smile.
It's important that during the pre-treatment consultation you understand the need and cost for additional treatment to replace crowns, veneers and fillings.
If you are considering crowns, veneers, dentures etc. then talk to your dentist about whitening at the start of treatment. It is much easier to whiten the natural teeth first and then match any other restorations or replacement teeth to the natural whitened teeth.
