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Tooth Whitening

Many toothpastes and over the counter products claim to have a whitening effect. In fact this is achieved by removing surface stain and plaque. 
However, none of these products will actually change the natural colour of the teeth. The only systems that can truly, and very importantly safely, whiten the teeth contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide at concentrations that are effective are only available through dentists.

The systems can be broadly divided into in-surgery "power" bleaching, carried out by your dentist or a home bleaching system, whereby by the patient uses a whitening gel in a custom-made thin gum shield.

Home Bleaching

This system uses various types of peroxide gel in a soft plastic gum shield which we custom make from moulds taken from your teeth to ensure a perfect fit during wear.

Depending on the strength of the gel, the gum shields are generally worn from an hour per day, to overnight, for a period of up to one month.

POINTS FOR CONSIDERATION PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT OF TOOTH WHITENING

Tooth whitening means just that - the gel will not change the colour of any fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers etc. that may show at the front of the mouth. If you have any such restorations, you may need to consider replacing these after the whitening process or lower your expectations with regard to how white you want your teeth to be. Sensitivity is the only known side effect, although this is only transient. Allergy to peroxides is an absolute contradiction. Minimum age for whitening is 15 and is not recommended during pregnancy.

Tooth whitening effects do not last forever. Exactly how long depends on your diet. Hot drinks, such as tea and coffee, smoking and red wine will produce staining over time. To maintain your whiter smile, home bleaching can be easily topped up using fresh gel in the gum shields every year or so.

Britesmile

This is a patented system that will achieve the same results as the home whitening system, but takes only one hour. The whitening gel is painted onto the teeth in the surgery and then activated by a cool blue LED light. Unlike any other systems there is no need to follow up the procedure with any home whitening because the results are predictable and quite outstanding. To maintain your whiter smile, a home whitening top up kit may be needed.