Whitening

In-chair teeth whitening is where a high concentrate bleach is applied to the teeth. 

Whitening your teeth under the supervision of the dentist is the safest method of teeth whitening. Your gumline and lips are protected against the effects of bleach through the use of rubber and gauze seals. As well, the dentist will monitor you throughout your teeth whitening treatment.

Alternative methods of whitening such as over-the-counter whitening kits can be less effective as they use reduced amounts of bleach. Furthermore, trays that are not customised for your mouth can cause bleach to leach onto the gumline. When bleach is exposed to oral tissue for long periods of time it can cause adverse effects such as chemical burns.

To begin your teeth whitening treatment, the dentist will protect your gums, cheeks, tongue and lips by using a rubber appliance as well as gauze seals. This prevents the bleach solution from moving away from your teeth and onto sensitive areas such as the gumline.  

Next, they will paint whitening gel onto the tooth surface. A UV light is used to heat the solution which activates it to penetrate deeper into the enamel. In general, this process can take between 60 to 90 minutes.

Once treatment is completed, you will be able to see results instantly.

Individuals may be concerned with certain risks associated improper teeth whitening such as tooth sensitivity or chemical burns. However, if you follow your dentist’s instructions teeth whitening is completely safe and effective.

Most whitening concerns are derived from improper use or by using over-the-counter whitening trays that do not fit properly. Non-customised trays do not stop bleach from travelling across the gumline. When bleach connects directly with the oral tissue for long periods of time, it can cause adverse effects.

If you have any concerns regarding your in-chair teeth whitening treatment, please consult your dentist.

Your dentist will decide whether teeth whitening is a suitable treatment for your case.

You may not be suitable for teeth whitening if you:

• Are a smoker
• Have sensitive teeth
• Have severely discoloured teeth

If you are a smoker and plan to continue smoking after treatment, the dentist may be reluctant to use teeth whitening treatments. Smoking causes tooth discolouration and you may find your new smile won’t last if you continue to smoke.

On the other hand, teeth whitening can be a good incentive for many to give up smoking so they can maintain their lovely new smiles.

There is also a chance teeth whitening will cause tooth sensitivity. So, those who suffer from sensitive teeth may not want to increase their sensitivity by undergoing teeth whitening.

Moreover, severely discoloured teeth may not see favorable results and may be better suited to other cosmetic dental treatments such as veneers, dental crowns or dentures.

In general, most individuals are suitable for teeth whitening.