Enquire about Teeth Whitening
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the colour of teeth. It typically involves the use of various products or treatments to remove stains or discolouration, restoring a brighter, whiter appearance. People often choose teeth whitening to address issues such as yellowing caused by ageing, food, drink, or tobacco use.
Whitening can be done either with a home whitening kit or in a dental surgery under professional supervision. The procedure targets the enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth, and works to reduce the visibility of darkened areas, leaving teeth looking whiter.
Benefits of teeth whitening
Teeth whitening offers several benefits when it comes to improving the appearance of your smile. A whiter smile can enhance your overall confidence and create a positive first impression. It can also provide a sense of well-being, particularly when you feel good about your appearance. Whitening can be especially helpful for individuals with stained or discoloured teeth due to lifestyle choices such as drinking coffee, tea, or smoking.
Types of teeth whitening
There are different types of teeth whitening methods. What is best for you will depend on your needs and personal preferences. Some options are done at the dentist’s office, while others can be done at home with special products. Common types of teeth whitening include:
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Whitening at the dentist
Teeth whitening done by a dentist offers quicker and more noticeable results. The dentist uses stronger whitening products than those available at a drugstore or online, and these products can provide dramatic improvements in a single session. The procedure is typically completed in about an hour, and the dentist will ensure that the treatment is safe for your teeth and gums. It’s a great choice for people looking for fast, professional results.
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Professional at-home whitening
Professional at-home whitening kits are prescribed by a dentist, offering convenience and customised treatment. These kits include custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, ensuring a more precise fit and better results compared to over-the-counter options. Treatment usually takes longer but can be just as effective when followed correctly.
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A combination of the two!
Some people choose a combination of in-office and at-home whitening treatments for even better results. A dentist may start with a professional in-office whitening session to give you an immediate boost and then provide a customised at-home kit to maintain and further enhance the results. This combination offers a balance of speed and long-term effectiveness.
Why choose professional whitening from a Fulham dentist
Choosing professional whitening from a dental professional over an over-the-counter product offers several advantages. Dentists use stronger, more effective whitening agents that can provide faster, more noticeable results. We also customise treatments to your specific needs, ensuring a safer and more accurate approach. Unlike over-the-counter products, which can sometimes cause uneven results or sensitivity, professional whitening is monitored to protect your teeth and gums.
Additionally, a dental professional can offer personalised advice on maintaining results and avoiding future staining. Professional treatments tend to be more reliable and long-lasting compared to DIY options, giving you peace of mind and a brighter, more confident smile.
Teeth whitening from Fulham Road Dental
Teeth whitening from our team at Fulham Road Dental offers a professional and personalised approach to achieving a brighter, whiter smile. With expert guidance, we use advanced whitening treatments tailored to your specific needs, ensuring safe and effective results. Whether you choose in-office whitening for fast, dramatic results or professional at-home kits for a more gradual improvement, our dentists ensure the use of high-quality, approved products.
Our skilled team will assess your oral health and recommend the most suitable treatment, while also providing advice on how to maintain your results. With Fulham Road Dental, you can trust that your teeth whitening experience will be comfortable, effective, and deliver long-lasting, beautiful results for a confident smile.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
How long does teeth whitening last?
The results of teeth whitening can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on your lifestyle and oral care routine. Professional whitening treatments tend to provide longer-lasting results compared to over-the-counter products. However, factors such as smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, and poor oral hygiene can cause stains to return more quickly.
To maintain your whitening results for as long as possible, it is important to practise good oral hygiene, attend regular dental check-ups, and avoid stain-causing foods and drinks. Some people choose to have occasional touch-up treatments to keep their smile bright. Your dentist can advise on the best way to maintain your results based on your individual needs.
Can anyone get their teeth whitened?
Teeth whitening is safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Those with healthy teeth and gums usually achieve the best results. However, individuals with gum disease, tooth decay, or very sensitive teeth may need to address these issues before whitening. Some types of deep stains, such as those caused by certain medications, may not respond well to whitening treatments.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are often advised to avoid whitening as a precaution. To ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you, it is best to consult a dentist. They can assess your teeth and recommend the most suitable whitening option based on your individual needs.
How white will my teeth get after whitening?
The level of whiteness achieved after teeth whitening varies from person to person. Factors such as the natural shade of your teeth, the type of whitening treatment used, and the severity of staining all play a role in the final result. Professional whitening treatments can lighten teeth by several shades, often achieving a noticeable improvement.
However, teeth will not become unnaturally white, and results will depend on how your teeth respond to the whitening agents. Some deep stains may not disappear completely but can still be significantly reduced. Your dentist or hygienist can give you an idea of the expected results based on the current shade of your teeth and recommend the best treatment to achieve a brighter, natural-looking smile.
How long does a professional whitening treatment take?
The length of a professional teeth whitening treatment depends on the method used. In-chair whitening typically takes 60 to 90 minutes and is completed in a single visit. The dentist or hygienist applies a strong whitening gel to the teeth and using a special light to enhance the results.
For at-home professional whitening, provided by a dentist, treatment usually takes two to four weeks. Custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel are used for a set amount of time each day, usually a few hours or overnight. The exact duration depends on the strength and type of gel you and the dentist have chosen. Your dentist will recommend the best option for you based on your teeth and whitening goals.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have fillings, crowns, or veneers?
Teeth whitening treatments only work on natural teeth and do not change the colour of fillings, crowns, or veneers. If you have these restorations, they will remain the same shade while the surrounding natural teeth become whiter. This can create an uneven appearance. If your restorations are visible when you smile, you may need to consider replacing them after whitening to match the new tooth colour.
Before undergoing whitening, it’s best to consult your dentist, who can assess your teeth and restorations. They will advise on the most suitable options to achieve an even, natural-looking result while maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.
Will teeth whitening damage my enamel?
Teeth whitening, when done correctly and under professional supervision, does not damage tooth enamel. Whitening treatments are designed to target and remove stains from the enamel, without altering the healthy structure of your teeth.
Enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth, and while whitening does not weaken it, some people may experience temporary sensitivity due to the whitening agents. This usually fades within a few days. To ensure your enamel stays healthy, it’s best to follow your dentist’s recommendations and avoid excessive whitening. A dentist-supervised treatment is the safest way to achieve a brighter smile while keeping your teeth strong and healthy.
How soon can I eat or drink after whitening?
After teeth whitening, it’s best to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water. Whitening temporarily makes the teeth more porous, meaning they can absorb stains more easily. For the first 24 to 48 hours, you should avoid dark-coloured foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, curry, and berries. Acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits and fizzy drinks, should also be avoided as they can increase sensitivity.
Instead, stick to light-coloured, non-acidic foods such as chicken, rice, pasta, and dairy products. Following these guidelines will help maintain your whitening results and prevent new stains from forming too soon after treatment.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, you can whiten your teeth if you have sensitivity, but you should be cautious. Some whitening treatments can increase tooth sensitivity, especially those with strong whitening agents. If you have sensitive teeth, it’s best to choose a gentler whitening option, such as a lower-concentration gel or a dentist-supervised treatment. Your dentist may also recommend using a desensitising toothpaste before and after whitening to help reduce discomfort.
Avoiding very hot or cold foods during the whitening process can also help. Sensitivity after whitening is usually temporary and should fade within a few days. If you experience severe discomfort, speak to your dentist, who can suggest the safest and most effective whitening method for your teeth.
Does whitening work on all types of stains?
Teeth whitening works best on surface stains caused by food, drink, or tobacco. These stains are typically on the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, and can be effectively treated with whitening products. However, whitening may be less effective on deep stains that have penetrated the tooth enamel, often due to factors such as aging or certain medications. Intrinsic stains, which occur inside the tooth, may not respond well to standard whitening treatments.
In such cases, your dentist might recommend alternative treatments, such as veneers or bonding, to improve the appearance of your teeth. Before whitening, it’s best to consult with your dentist to assess the type and severity of your stains and determine the most suitable treatment for the best results.
What should I do if I experience pain or irritation after whitening?
If you experience pain or irritation after whitening, it’s usually due to temporary sensitivity and should subside within a few days. To relieve discomfort, try using a desensitising toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, and avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks during this time. If the irritation persists, or if you notice gum discomfort or severe pain, contact your dentist for advice. They may recommend a gentler whitening treatment or provide solutions to manage the sensitivity.
In some cases, a dentist may suggest taking a break from whitening treatments to allow your teeth to recover. It’s important to follow your dentist’s guidance to ensure safe and comfortable whitening results. If you have concerns about sensitivity, discuss them with your dentist before beginning treatment.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website regarding teeth whitening treatments is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental procedure or treatment.
Individual results may vary, and the effectiveness of teeth whitening treatments can depend on various factors, including the condition of your teeth and gums, lifestyle habits, and adherence to aftercare recommendations. Teeth whitening treatments should only be performed under the supervision of a qualified dental professional to ensure safety and optimal results.
Do not attempt to perform any dental procedures without the guidance of a licensed dentist. If you experience any discomfort, irritation, or other adverse reactions during or after a whitening treatment, please consult your dentist immediately.
By proceeding with any treatment, you acknowledge that you understand the potential risks and benefits and agree to follow the guidance and recommendations provided by your dental professional.