Teeth whitening is one of the easiest and most conservative ways to improve your smile. It has become a very popular cosmetic procedure amongst adults of all ages and when carried out correctly is completely safe, does not cause any damage to the teeth and can achieve great results. I am often asked about teeth whitening not only by my patients but friends and family. There are two ways in which someone can go about whitening their teeth.
-
Take home whitening.
A great way to improve the shade of your teeth at home, take home whitening involves two short appointments with your dental professional. Firstly, impressions are taken of your upper and lower teeth. Trays are then fabricated custom to your teeth. At the second appointment the trays are fitted, dentist prescribed whitening gel is issued and you’ll be shown how to use your kit to safely achieve optimal results. -
In chair whitening with your dental professional.
This option is the most efficient way to whiten your teeth. The procedure involves 4x 15 minute sessions. Each session involves placing gel on the teeth & activating it with an LED light which accelerates the whitening process.Dental professionals use the most powerful whitening solution so before we start we ensure the soft tissues (gums, cheeks etc.) are protected. Like take home whitening, we take moulds of your teeth for custom trays to be used for a desensitising solution post treatment. These trays can also be used in the future to maintain your white shade. At Claremont Dental we will ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible by offering pillows and Netflix, while our professionally trained team brighten your smile. Whilst both options can accomplish the same outcome, in chair whitening can achieve your desired shade in just a couple of hours due to the strength of gel.
The difference between whitening procedures or products purchased from stores/salons compared to a dentist.
-
Damage Prevention
Most store/salon purchased kits come with one size fits all trays whereas fitted, custom trays from the dentist will prevent solution (whitening gel) overflow. Whitening gel should not come into contact with soft tissues (gums, cheeks etc.) because it will do damage to your teeth and gums. -
Whitening Gel “Power”
Because whitening gel can do damage to the gums and soft tissue, weaker gel is sold in stores. Legally dental professionals are permitted to use/issue a higher percent whitening gel because it is used in a more controlled environment. This stronger concentration and professional application means you will achieve a more predictable and desired outcome. -
Sensitivity
One of the side effects of teeth whitening is mild/short term sensitivity and it is important to be educated and equipped with managing any potential discomfort. It is also important to remember that teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Prior to commencing any treatment the team at Claremont Dental can ensure your teeth are clean and free of decay/disease before addressing your cosmetic concerns.
#openup and keep smiling.
Related Posts
- The importance of saliva for our oral health
- 7 Habits that can stain your teeth
- Five common dental problems in children
- Are electric toothbrushes better for your teeth?
- What is dental plaque