Cosmetic Dentistry
Teeth Whitening
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Many scientific studies show that people with whiter teeth look and feel younger. These people also feel more confident. People who have whitened their teeth have a greater interest in keeping their smile healthy and bright. They also spend more time with oral hygiene care, they have healthier gums and teeth and have fresher breath
One Hour Teeth Whitening
The professional teeth whitening treatment consists of a whitening gel activated by a special, patented light operating in the "blue spectrum." Unlike traditional bleaching methods, with there's no fuss or mess and no gels or trays to take home. All you have to do is sit back and relax while we do the rest.
What is take-home teeth whitening?
Take-home teeth whitening is a combination of custom-made take-home teeth whitening trays and teeth whitening solution. Custom bleaching trays are fabricated to be used at home for about 2-8 weeks or until the teeth have reached their Peak Teeth Whiteness. Clinical use has seen the teeth whiten 3- 10+ shades.
As you whiten in the comfort of your own home, teeth whitening solution is placed in the custom-made teeth whitening trays. While wearing the trays, the solution penetrates to the deeper layer of the tooth. Here, the carbamide peroxide is broken down to oxygen that acts on the stained organic deposits changing them to a whitish colour. This process brightens the tooth colour but leaves the tooth structure unchanged. The take-home solution is usually 15% and 20% Carbamide peroxide or may also have different concentration as well. This solution is placed in the custom-made bleaching trays and used for 2-2.5 hours/day, usually in the evening.
Some of the products bought over the counter contain gels that have less effective active ingredients, have a lower concentration of active whitening solution, are not thick enough to stay in place and are not as effective in keeping the teeth whitening solution in contact with the teeth. Some do not even use Carbamide Peroxide, one of the main ingredients that have been proven to whiten teeth. Our custom-made teeth whitening trays fit precisely. This fit allows the teeth whitening solution to be in ideal contact with the tooth surface so that the solution works most effectively.
Teeth whitening is ideal for people who have healthy teeth and would like a whiter, brighter smile. This includes teenagers and adults with their permanent teeth. In particular, teeth that have been stained by consumption of staining foods ( tomato sauces, fruits such as berries and grapes, ), staining drinks (coffee, tea, red wine, colas) or teeth that have just discoloured over time with ageing respond well to the teeth whitening process. Smokers can also whiten and brighten the colour of their teeth. Even people that have mild tetracycline/minocycline staining (gray staining from medication) can have brighter teeth with extended home teeth whitening. Teenagers that have completed orthodontic treatment and have their braces off can whiten the colour of their natural teeth. The best results will be achieved with teeth that have yellowed with age or are stained by coffee, tea, red wine, smoke etc.
Tooth whitening does not change the colour of fillings and other restorative materials. It does not affect porcelain, other ceramics or dental gold. However, it can slightly affect restorations made with composite materials, cements and dental amalgams.
The side-effects of the teeth whitening
Some people experience tooth sensitivity. Temperature sensitivity and twinges of pain on the teeth are completely normal and a sign that the home teeth whitening is proceeding as normal. Sensitivity may be temporarily more evident when consuming extremely hot or cold items. Others have experienced discomfort in the gums. Gum sensitivity is temporary and usually disappears within a couple of days of completing treatment. If you experience any side effects, discontinue use and see your doctor.
Whitening products have been used extensively without side effects. For 20+ years, bleaching with Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide peroxide have been proven to be safe and effective. No adverse long-term effects have been shown in studies of professional teeth whitening. The whitening solution has been used by dentist for years. The teeth whitening solutions we use will not harm tooth structure, gums or existing dental work.
Who shouldn't whiten their teeth?
Women that are pregnant, suspect may be pregnant and/or nursing should not whiten their teeth. There are no studies to show the safety of using Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide Peroxide while pregnant or breast-feeding. If you have gum disease, loose teeth, loose fillings, cavities or any other pain or discomfort, we recommend you see a dentist prior to teeth whitening. If you are allergic to hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide we recommend not completing the teeth whitening.
How Long will the results last?
Results may last from several months to several years. If the teeth whitening is completed, as directed, the teeth will never get as dark as they were when treatment began. Longevity of teeth whitening results also depends on lifestyle and genetics. Some people have teeth that are more susceptible to staining and discolouration than others. Also, food and drinks we consume will affect our teeth (smoking, coffee, tea colas, red wine and berries) are all common staining agents and people that consume significant amounts may need more frequent touch ups.