The Science of Teeth Whitening: A Comprehensive Guide
The gradual darkening of your pearly whites is an inevitable aspect of ageing. But other factors like consuming coffee, smoking, and drinking black tea can lead to discolouration too. That’s why teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic treatment in recent years, promising to bring back the natural whiteness of your teeth.
What exactly is teeth whitening and how does it work?
Well, after a thorough examination by your Dentist in Llanelli, a custom tray is created to fit the mould of your teeth. You then add a harmless bleaching agent to the tray, which you wear for a few hours each day or overnight for up to three weeks. The result? Brighter teeth and a more confident smile.
Does it hurt?
The question of discomfort during the teeth whitening procedure is a common one. While some people may experience sensitivity in their teeth and gums, this can be remedied with the use of toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. In rare cases, teeth may remain sensitive during the treatment, but they soon recover to normal after the bleaching is stopped.
Is teeth whitening safe?
The safety of teeth whitening is a top concern for many people. However, when performed by a professional Dentist or dental therapist working alongside a Dentist, the procedure is completely safe and the bleaching agent used is safe for both teeth and gums. The Dentist will check first to see if the treatment is suitable for you.
Is it expensive?
The cost of teeth whitening in Llanelli is a factor that shouldn’t prevent you from benefiting from the procedure. That’s why a range of competitive prices are available to suit your budget.
Can I make the whitening effect last longer?
Making the whitening effect last longer requires a bit of effort on your part. To extend the life of your whitening treatment, avoid smoking and drinking tea, coffee, and red wine. Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing your teeth twice a day, can also help prevent the build-up of stains. You can also use whitening toothpaste to maintain the bright smile provided by your treatment. Our Dentists and dental hygienists are available to help remove stains and keep your smile looking great.
Can anyone have it?
It’s important to note that teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone. A thorough examination by your Dentist will determine if the procedure is right for you. While anyone with a healthy mouth can benefit from teeth whitening, there are some circumstances where it should be avoided.
Reasons where teeth whitening should be avoided
- The product must not be used on patients under the age of 18.
- If you have gum disease or other dental problems, your Dentist may advise against the treatment until these are resolved.
- Whitening only works on natural teeth, so false teeth, crowns, bridges, fillings, and veneers will not respond to the process.
- If you have de-calcifications (white spots) on your teeth, these may become more noticeable after whitening.
- Health problems and allergies to hydrogen peroxide may also make the treatment unsuitable.
- Lastly, teeth whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
It is best to visit our dental practice if you want to make your smile whiter. This is because we can take a good look at your existing teeth and advise you on what type of results we could get.
