Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is a very popular, accessible and cosmetic dental technique which offers a rapid and near painless way to an improved smile. The treatment is usually performed using a special halogen or laser light source and/or the application of bleaching “gels” – several of the latest techniques use these techniques in combination and achieve particularly rapid results; in some cases treatment being completed in just a few hours.

Tooth whitening can be used to successfully treat naturally dark teeth or teeth that have become stained or darkened due to smoking or consumption of staining foods like tea and coffee.

The tooth whitening process:

Traditional tooth bleaching is still the most common form of tooth whitening but newer techniques using a combination of bleaching gels and special laser or halogen light sources are fast gaining in popularity.

The bleaching medium is applied to the teeth using a device similar to a sporting gum-shield. Oxygen from the active ingredients within the bleaching agent permeates the enamel surface of the tooth and painlessly works to remove stains without damaging the surrounding structure of the tooth. Depending on the whitening process selected, a laser or halogen light source may be applied to assist and speed up the bleaching process.

The latest tooth bleaching processes can be completed in just a few hours whereas the more traditional techniques may require a few visits to the dentists spanning a couple of weeks.

Tooth whitening should last several years but this is dependent on lifestyle, the types of foods you eat and natural structure of the teeth. When necessary, the tooth whitening treatment can be re-applied.

Studies show that a confident smile is a major factor in enhancing lifestyle and tooth whitening has quickly become one of the most accessible ways to quickly and cost effectively improve your teeth and smile.

 

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