A variety of teeth whitening products are available on the market, some of which can be purchased over-the-counter and some of which require dental treatment. You may have seen little to no change in the shade of your teeth when you tried teeth whitening strips or toothpaste. Those who have ever had in-office professional teeth whitening know that to get the best results, whitening needs to be done by a professional. At Glandwr Dental Practice we have a number of services to offer including teeth whitening.
To help clear up any queries, we have a set of teeth whitening FAQs. If you have any additional questions for us, please feel free to contact us to ask.
How does teeth whitening work?
The plaque and tartar on our teeth become stained when coloured molecules stick to them. Dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar, but sometimes stains remain in the underlying layer of the tooth called dentin. As the bleaching solution is applied to the teeth, oxygen from the air and carbon from the dentin combine to break apart staining molecules stuck to the teeth.
Does whitening damage teeth?
Getting your teeth whitened under dental care significantly reduces your risk of damaging tooth enamel, gums, or any other part of your mouth. By visiting a dentist for teeth whitening, you ensure you are getting genuine whitening products from reputable vendors applied by professionals. You will also reduce your chances of experiencing tooth sensitivity or root damage.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
The whitening process does not hurt, but some mild sensitivity is common either during or after the initial treatment. Usually, this subsides after a couple of days. If it doesn’t, get in touch with your dentist who can give you further advice.
How long does whitening take?
Initially you wear your specialised trays with the whitening gel for 10 nights and then top up for 1-2 nights as you find necessary, usually once every 3-6 months.
How long does teeth whitening last?
If a patient follows a healthy diet, avoids smoking, avoids teeth staining foods and drinks, utilises a straw whenever possible, and keeps regular dental cleanings, their teeth will remain whitest for the longest time.
Can I get teeth whitening on the NHS?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment, which means it is not available on the NHS. If you are looking to spread the cost of your treatment then at Glandwr Dental Practice we have Finance options available for treatment over £300.
Am I suitable for teeth whitening?
Many people can benefit from teeth whitening treatment, but those who have gum disease or other dental health problems, such as tooth decay, may not be eligible. To assess whether your teeth are suitable for treatment, you’ll need to consult your dentist.
Is teeth whitening worth it?
Professional teeth whiteners are safe, effective, and done under the supervision of a dental professional. For long-lasting, safe results, it’s worth the extra cost to visit the dentist.
