Tooth Whitening 

A bright and white smile can make you look and feel great. Patients who have experienced the transformation of tooth whitening say that the procedure helps them to smile with confidence.

Tooth whitening is a highly effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth's surface. The whitening process is most effective on mildly discoloured teeth. Darker stains such as those caused by antibiotics, take longer to respond to treatment. Whitening will not affect restorations such as fillings, crowns or dentures. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth and the period for which the product is applied.

Tooth whitening is a process that lightens discolourations of enamel and dentine. The system uses a mild solution retained in a custom fitted appliance that is worn over the teeth. Research indicates that whitening teeth with 9-16% carbamide peroxide under the supervision of a dentist is completely safe for teeth and gums.

How it works

Impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory which creates a thin tray that fits snugly over the teeth. The whitening tray is lined with gel and fitted over the teeth. For the quickest results it is worn overnight. As the active ingredient in the gel is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentine and bleaches the coloured substances. The tooth then appears lighter. Results are usually seen within the first week, with the final result emerging over the next 14-21 days.

Side effects

There are no reported long term side effects. Some people experience increased sensitivity of the teeth to cold during the treatment; others report discomfort in the gums or a sore throat. These symptoms always disappear 1-3 days after stopping or completing the treatment. White fillings in front teeth may need to be replaced to match the new colour of the teeth. Teeth will appear lighter than before, but may need periodic repeat treatment to maintain the effect.