Brightening Your Smile: A Comprehensive Guide to Tooth Whitening

Brightening Your Smile: A Comprehensive Guide to Tooth Whitening

Post by : Dr Keiron Thompson BDS GDC No. 228585 | 27 February 2024

Tooth whitening can be a very effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the enamel on the surface. Now, It cannot make a complete colour change, but it may lighten the existing shade of your teeth. Think of it as a facelift for your smile, offering a fresher, rejuvenated appearance without invasive procedures.

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening brightens the appearance of teeth by removing stains on the surface. It’s sought after for cosmetic reasons, enhancing one’s smile. This process is akin to polishing a gemstone, revealing its true brilliance and lustre that’s been dulled by time and exposure.

How Does Tooth Whitening Work?

The process typically involves bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals break down stains into smaller pieces, making the colour less concentrated and teeth brighter.

There are several reasons why you might get your teeth whitened. Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour vary, so do our teeth. Very few people have brilliant-white teeth, and our teeth can also become more discoloured as we get older.

Your teeth can also be stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant. Smoking can also stain teeth. These are the silent storytellers of our lifestyle, leaving marks that, thankfully, can be erased with tooth whitening.

‘Calculus’ or tartar can also affect the colour of your teeth. Some people may have staining under the surface, which can be caused by certain antibiotics or by tiny cracks in the teeth which take up stains.

Professional bleaching is the most usual method of tooth whitening. Your dental team will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment, and will supervise it if you are. First, the dental team will put a rubber shield or a gel on your gums to protect them. They will then apply the whitening product to your teeth, using a specially made tray which fits into your mouth like a mouthguard. This personalised approach ensures that your journey to a brighter smile is both safe and tailored to your unique dental landscape.

The ‘active ingredient’ in the product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth colour is made lighter.

Considerations and Maintenance

Tooth Sensitivity: This is a common side effect that usually subsides after the treatment ends. Products designed for sensitive teeth can help. This temporary discomfort is a small price to pay for the joy of a brighter, more confident smile.

Not for Everyone: Whitening is not effective on all types of discolouration, such as deep stains or dental restorations. It’s a reminder that our smiles are as individual as our fingerprints, each with its own set of challenges and solutions.

Maintenance: To maintain results, avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth, follow good oral hygiene practices, and consider touch-up treatments.

Consult a Professional: It’s essential to consult with a dental professional before starting any whitening treatment to ensure it’s appropriate for your dental health.

Conclusion

Tooth whitening can significantly enhance the appearance of your smile. Whether you opt for a professional service or an at-home solution, it’s crucial to follow the product instructions and consult with a dental professional to ensure the best and safest results. Maintenance is key to prolonging the effects, along with regular dental check-ups and cleanings. On that note, embarking on this journey can transform not just your smile but your confidence and the way you carry yourself in the world.

If you want to improve your smile please call us on 0208 399 4311