This involves no invasive surgery, it’s simply a case of one of our dentists preparing a tray that fits into your mouth - a bit like a mouthguard; this holds a whitening gel that gently works on your teeth through special non-harmful chemicals, which mix with oxygen to make your teeth lighter and whiter.

Total treatment length is between three to six weeks but after an introduction to the process at our surgery, you can apply the whitening product easily and effectively at home.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is the process by which the discolorations of the enamel are lightened.

How long will it last?

This will depend on the patient, and the patient’s oral habits. The average person will require periodic touch ups once or twice a year.

Is the treatment safe?

Yes. Clinical studies have shown that bleaching under the supervision of a dentist is safe for teeth and gums. Your dentist will advise you on how to use the teeth whitening take home kits.

How white will my teeth get?

This will depend on your teeth – everyone’s teeth are different. If your teeth are heavily stained from coffee or smoking, you will probably see a big change. If your teeth are not heavily stained, the change will not be as great.

How does the teeth whitening treatment work?

The active ingredient is broken down, allowing oxygen to enter the enamel and dentin, causing the stains to be lightened.

What causes teeth to discolour?

There are many causes of tooth discolouration. Some of the most common include the consumption of highly coloured foods (beetroot, sweets, etc) and drinks (coffee, tea, fizzy drinks and red wine). Antibiotics consumed at an early age, natural ageing, smoking and trauma can also add to discoloration.

Do all teeth whiten evenly?

There is an overall whitening of all teeth. The biting edges of the teeth are more likely to whiten faster than the areas adjacent to the gum. It should also be noted that in some patients, whitening can result in a frosty, chalky appearance of the teeth, but this usually reverts to a more natural translucent appearance after several hours to several weeks (very rare).

Are there any long-term effects?

Dentists have been using peroxide whitening for over 50 years and there have been no known long-term adverse effects.

Are there any side effects?

For the majority of patients there are none. However, some will experience temporary sensitivity (dull or sharp) on the teeth and/or gums. This will subside after several hours of stopping the treatment. The wear times can be shortened or made less frequent or topical desensitizing toothpaste or gel can be used. Abstain from carbonated drinks, citrus foods and beverages to avoid sensitivity for a few hours after treatment.

What causes teeth to stain again after bleaching?

The same things that made them stain in the first place, i.e. general ageing, red wine, smoking, tea, coffee, coloured foods etc.

How often do you have to get your teeth whitening?

The average person will require periodic touch ups once or twice a year.

Will my crowns, veneers and white fillings get whiter?

The whitening treatment can remove surface stains from crowns, veneers and white fillings, but cannot make them whiter than their original colour. Only your natural teeth can get whiter using the teeth whitening treatment.

Is it safe to whiten my teeth if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?

Not enough research has been carried out regarding this group of patients, therefore we advise that you delay teeth whitening if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do over-the-counter bleaching systems work as well as dental surgery whitening treatments?

No, these systems use trays which are not perfectly custom-fitted to your teeth. Sensitivity is often a problem if your trays are not properly fitted. The bleaching solution is not evenly distributed over the teeth, and saliva can seep in to dilute the solution. Many over-the-counter systems contain an acidic rinse which can remove significant amounts of the tooth structure. These types of systems usually contain a lower amount of peroxide, hence they are not as strong and effective as the gel that your dentist will prescribe.