Tooth whitening is a highly effective way of lightening the colour of the teeth without the removal of any tooth structure as with crowns and veneers.
There are three ways to do this:-
1) HOME WHITENING
This process involves the dentist making a custom-fitted bleaching splint for you that will fit your teeth precisely.
You will be supplied with cartridges of bleaching gel and the dentist will provide full instructions of how to load the splint with this gel.
This technique usually involves wearing the splint for a few hours every day for approximately 2-4 weeks.
2)CHAIRSIDE WHITENING
This is carried out by the dentist in the surgery.
Whitening gel is applied to the teeth which is then activated by a light.
It takes about 60minutes and may require a follow-up visit.
3)COMBINATION OF HOME AND CHAIRSIDE WHITENING
DrWaris Patel is vastly experienced in tooth whitening having carries out hundreds of whitening cases.His preferred method for more heavily discoloured teeth or getting the best long term whitening results is the combination method carried out in the sequence below
- Consultation and consent for whitening
- Impressions for whitening trays.
- fit trays and follow the detailed instructions given for home whitening.You are provided home whitening kit
- review of home whitening 2 weeks later
- Chairside whitening
- continue with home whitening for another 2 weeks.
Who can benefit from tooth whitening?
ALMOST EVERYONE.
DR Patel will determine whether or not you are a viable candidate for the process .
The tooth lightening system is ideal for people who have HEALTHY, UNRESTORED teeth and would like to have a lighter, brighter smile.
Crowns, bridges, dentures and veneers will not lighten with bleaching.
Is it safe?
Yes
There may be some sensitivity or gum irritation during whitening which is transient.You will be shown how to both prevent and treat this if it occurs.
How long will the results last?
The effects last for approximately 1 – 3 years or even longer. However, teeth will darken again if exposed to staining products. eg. Tobacco, coffee,red wine,berries,curries, etc.
