Professional teeth whitening can lighten the natural colour of your teeth without removing tooth surface. It cannot create a completely different colour, but it can make the existing shade appear brighter.
Why do teeth become discoloured?
Natural tooth colour varies from person to person, and teeth often become darker with age. Surface staining can also be caused by tea, coffee, red wine, blackcurrant and smoking. Tartar can affect the appearance of the teeth, while deeper staining may be linked to certain medicines, trauma or tiny cracks that absorb colour.
What whitening treatments are available?
Church Street Dental Practice offers both Zoom in-chair whitening and take-home whitening. A dentist must assess your teeth and gums first to confirm that whitening is suitable and to identify any restorations that will not change colour.
What happens during Zoom in-chair whitening?
The gums and soft tissues are protected before whitening gel is applied to the teeth. The Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed light is then used to activate the product and speed up the whitening process. In suitable cases, a noticeable colour change may be achieved during a single appointment.
How does take-home whitening work?
Custom-made trays are produced to fit your teeth. You place the prescribed whitening gel into the trays and wear them at home according to the dentist’s instructions. The shade changes gradually over the recommended treatment period.
Will crowns, veneers or fillings whiten?
Whitening products lighten natural tooth tissue but do not change the colour of fillings, crowns, bridges or veneers. Your dentist will assess existing restorations and explain how this may affect the final appearance.
Can whitening cause sensitivity?
Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Using the correct product and following professional instructions reduces the risk. Tell your dental team if you have sensitive teeth before treatment.
How can I maintain the result?
Good oral hygiene and regular professional care are important. Limiting strongly coloured drinks, avoiding smoking and rinsing with water after staining foods or drinks may help maintain the shade for longer.
