Teeth Whitening
Teeth may gradually become stained or discoloured due to ageing, dietary habits, smoking, certain medications or other factors. Teeth whitening is a dental procedure that may help lighten the appearance of suitable natural teeth.
At A Dental Clinic, teeth whitening is provided following an assessment by a dentist. During the consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums, discuss the possible causes of discolouration and advise whether whitening may be appropriate for you.
How Teeth Whitening Works?
Teeth-whitening products commonly contain whitening agents that pass through the enamel and help break down some of the coloured compounds responsible for tooth discolouration.
The degree of whitening varies between individuals and depends on factors such as:
- The original shade of the teeth
- The type and cause of the staining
- The condition of the teeth and gums
- Existing dental restorations
- The whitening method used
- The individual’s response to treatment
Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, veneers and bridges generally do not whiten in the same way as natural teeth. The dentist will discuss this with you before treatment.
Teeth-Whitening Options
Depending on your dental condition and treatment needs, the dentist may discuss one or more whitening options.
In-Clinic Teeth Whitening
In-clinic whitening is performed at the dental clinic. A whitening agent is applied to the teeth while precautions are taken to protect the surrounding gums and soft tissues.
The procedure, possible benefits, limitations and risks will be explained before treatment. More than one session may be considered depending on the condition of the teeth and the individual’s treatment goals.
Dentist-Supervised Home Whitening
For home whitening, customised trays may be prepared to fit over the teeth. The dentist will provide instructions on the amount of whitening gel to use, how long the trays should be worn and the recommended treatment duration.
Patients should follow the dentist’s instructions and should not use more whitening gel or wear the trays for longer than advised.
Possible Benefits of Teeth Whitening
For suitable patients, teeth whitening may:
- Lighten some stains and discolouration
- Improve the appearance of tooth shade
- Help achieve a more even-looking tooth shade in suitable cases
- Allow treatment to be planned and supervised by a dentist
The results cannot be guaranteed and will differ between patients.
Is Teeth Whitening Suitable for Everyone?
Teeth whitening may not be suitable for every patient. A dental examination may be required before treatment, particularly if you have:
- Tooth decay
- Cracked or heavily worn teeth
- Gum disease
- Exposed tooth roots
- Existing tooth sensitivity
- Large fillings, crowns, veneers or other restorations
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- A history of reactions to whitening products
Any active dental problems may need to be addressed before whitening is considered.
Tooth Sensitivity and Other Considerations
Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or irritation of the gums during or after whitening. The likelihood and degree of sensitivity vary between individuals.
Inform the dentist if you have sensitive teeth or gums. The dentist may recommend modifying the whitening schedule, reducing the duration of use or stopping treatment temporarily.
Seek dental advice if sensitivity or irritation is persistent, severe or worsening.
After Whitening: Care and Maintenance
The whitening effect may gradually reduce over time. Factors such as coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and strongly coloured foods may contribute to renewed staining.
To help maintain your oral health and tooth appearance:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between the teeth regularly
- Attend routine dental examinations
- Limit habits that contribute to staining
- Follow the dentist’s advice regarding any future whitening treatment
Repeated or excessive use of whitening products is not recommended without professional advice.
Teeth-Whitening Consultation at A Dental Clinic
A consultation allows the dentist to assess the condition of your teeth and gums, discuss suitable whitening options and explain the possible benefits, limitations, costs and risks.
Treatment recommendations will depend on your dental condition and individual needs.
You may contact A Dental Clinic to arrange a dental consultation and find out whether teeth whitening may be suitable for you.