top of page
TEETH WHITENING
At Eastgate Dental & Cosmetic Centre, teeth whitening is a safe and easy method to change and brighten the colour of your teeth.
WHAT IS TEETH WHITENING?
Teeth whitening is a safe and easy cosmetic dental procedure that lightens and brightens the color of teeth. It involves the application of a bleaching agent to lighten stains and discoloration caused by factors such as aging, tobacco use, and consumption of certain foods or drinks, resulting in a brighter and whiter smile.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR TEETH WHITENING?
Preoperative photos and shade colour matching will be taken at the beginning of your treatment, followed by a digital scan to have your customised trays made which are used to contain whitening gel. These trays are typically worn for 7-8 hours overnight, followed by an in clinic whitening session.
The length of time you should wear your trays depends on the initial shade of your teeth. Lighter shades and younger teeth are more easily whitened compared to darker stained teeth. Some cases can take over 6 months to whiten, especially with very yellow or tetracycline-stained teeth. Existing fillings, crowns and bridges will not change shade during the whitening procedure.
During your whitening treatment, the shade of your teeth will gradually change and become brighter and whiter. The degree of whitening can be customised, and treatment can be stopped at any time.
HOW DO I MAINTAIN A BRIGHTER SMILE?
​The new brighter and whiter shade of your teeth will remain for several years but is mainly influenced by diet and smoking. Good oral hygiene and regular hygienist appointments are important to achieve optimal long-term results. Food and drinks such as curries, red wine, tea, coffee, and acidic foods stain teeth more easily. Whitening top-ups are available and may be required every few years.
Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of whitening, and if this occurs you can pause the whitening for a few days. Additionally, desensitising toothpaste can be used for a few days in the trays instead. White patches and slight discomfort can occur on the gums which are usually temporary and disappear within a few days.
Patients who already have sensitivity can still proceed with teeth whitening but may need to use desensitising toothpaste more regularly.
-
How often should I book an appointment for the Hygienist?It depends on the individual, some people are more prone to gum disease and some people find it harder to keep their teeth clean. If your oral hygiene is good, we recommend booking an appointment with your dentist every 6 months, or if you are more prone, we recommend it as often as every 3 months.
-
Why are hygiene appointments important?Hygiene appointments are integral to maintaining your dental health and keeping your teeth and gums clean. Your appointments will also allow us to treat the different stages of gum disease and prevent any other issues before they develop further.
-
What are the signs of gum disease?Gum disease is very common in the UK but it often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Common symptoms to look out for include a swollen and red appearance to the gums, and tenderness and bleeding while brushing. Another common sign is the receding of the gums, and the feeling that your teeth are becoming looser.
bottom of page