What is Teeth Whitening?
At Dentoworld we acknowledge that most people have considered teeth whitening at some time or other.
Teeth may become discoloured for a number of reasons. Many consumables discolour teeth including tea, coffee, red wine, some foods as well as smoking. Additionally, as we age teeth naturally become more yellow. Hairline fractures in enamel and the margins of composite fillings may become more susceptible to stain too. Sometimes individual teeth that have been root filled or died become naturally darker and these may be whitened to match adjacent teeth.
These visual changes may affect your self-esteem and teeth whitening can be a very quick and effective way of improving the appearance of your teeth without removing or damaging any of the tooth surfaces.
Many patients consider whitening following extensive orthodontic treatment and prior to new restorations such as crowns or veneers enabling the restorations to be matched to the new lighter teeth.
Professional bleaching is the most usual and readily available method of teeth whitening. Under European regulations teeth, whitening may only be carried out by a Dentist or by a Dental Hygienist, under the prescription of a Dentist. These regulations are to protect you and they ensure that the clinician is trained and has the skill and knowledge to carry out the procedure without risking permanent damage to the teeth or gums. At Dentoworld we will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment, which teeth can be whitened and advise you what to expect following teeth whitening.
Enlighten is the whitening product used at Dentoworld and is widely acknowledged as the most effective whitening system in the world. The active ingredient in Enlighten works by increasing the teeth’s permeability to oxygen which breaks down stain molecules.
Enlighten home whitening is a straightforward procedure and will involve two appointments. The first appointment requires taking a bespoke mould of your teeth in order to create specially made trays which fit your mouth perfectly. At the second appointment, these trays will be fitted and you will be shown how to insert and remove them, how to apply the whitening gel, and how to care for your trays.
The home whitening treatment usually takes approximately two weeks and will require regular application of the whitening product.
The effects of whitening can last indefinitely. 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. Your team at Dentoworld will advise you regarding care and maintenance before you start the treatment.
