Teeth Whitening

Everybody likes a nice smile. One of the easiest ways of achieving this is through lightening your teeth.

As you get older your teeth naturally discolor. This discoloration is speeded up by high pigment containing foods and drink and by other lifestyle factors such as smoking.

Tooth bleaching products help to lighten your teeth. These products contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamine peroxide in varying concentrations. When these chemicals degrade they release oxygen as part of the process. It is this oxygen which leeches into the tooth structure and removes the stains.

Teeth Whitening Options

There are many different dental bleaching products and systems on the market. Essential these products all fall into one of three main categories:

• In-Surgery Bleaching Systems - These bleaching products contain very high concentrations of bleaching agent and can legally only be used by a qualified dental professional. With these systems you attend the dental practice and have the procedure carried out in the comfort of the dental chair. Often multiple surgery visits are required to get the desired results.

• Home Bleaching Systems - This method allows whitening agents to be applied at home. The bleaching gel is used in conjunction with bleaching trays which are essentially specially modified mouthguards. Bleaching agents can be used through the day or at night, whenever is most convenient. Because the mouthguards are custom made they are comfortable to wear and this system is often far cheaper than in office treatments as far less surgery time is required.

• Over-the-counter Kits - These kits are available from most major pharmacies and often contain very low levels of active ingredients. Some over-the-counter products are more effective than others, this makes results unpredictable. You should always consult your dentist for advice if you are considering using these products.

As with most dental procedures there are some risks and possible side-effects associated with tooth whitening products. These will be fully discussed by your dentist and advice will be given concerning how to minimise these effects. All of our dentists have many years experience using tooth whitening products.

To book an appointment or for more information please phone on 01467 62411 or fill in our on-line booking form.

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