Are you considering teeth whitening but unsure about the important questions to ask? Many individuals have achieved successful results with professional dental whitening treatments or at-home whitening kits. However, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of these treatments before making a decision.
Before using any teeth whitening product, including over-the-counter options, it is essential to consult with our dentists. If you are contemplating teeth whitening in any capacity, here are several inquiries you should raise to your dentist to determine if it is the appropriate choice for you.
Why are my teeth discoloured?
Our dentists will help you identify the cause of the discolouration and determine if a whitening treatment is suitable.
Note that whitening may work better for yellow teeth than grey, brown, or black teeth.
If your teeth are stained from food, drinks, tobacco, or medication, our dentist may advise avoiding these to maintain the whitening results.
Additionally, any underlying dental issues causing the discolouration should be addressed first.
Consult with our dentists for proper assessment and guidance on dealing with tooth discolouration.
Are teeth whitening treatments considered safe?
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that does not require surgery, but it is essential to follow proper instructions and regulations to minimize potential risks.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products should not contain more than 6% hydrogen peroxide or 18% carbamide peroxide, as higher concentrations can pose a risk of chemical burns. Stronger products with higher concentrations should only be used by a registered dental professional.
What are the potential risks or side effects associated with teeth whitening?
If not performed correctly, teeth whitening treatments can carry the risk of injury or uneven results. Improper application of the bleaching agent may cause chemical burns if it comes into contact with gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. Thus, it is crucial to seek consultation with a dental professional before using any whitening product.
After teeth whitening, some individuals may experience increased sensitivity in their teeth and gums, especially following in-chair treatments. Consulting with our dentist can provide you with information about possible side effects and what to anticipate.
For pregnant women and new mothers, it is generally advisable to avoid teeth whitening as the chemicals used in the treatment can potentially enter the placenta and breast milk.
What is the duration of the teeth whitening treatment?
The effects of teeth whitening are not permanent; however, the duration of the results relies on the type of treatment you receive and the aftercare you provide for your teeth.
Typically, teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to two years. To increase the chances of maintaining whiter teeth for a longer period, it is advisable to refrain from smoking and consuming staining food and drinks, such as tea, coffee, and beetroot.
What level of whiteness can I expect for my teeth?
Before undergoing any whitening treatment, it is essential to set realistic expectations. Our dentist will provide you with an explanation of what you can likely anticipate.
It’s important to understand that not all whitening treatments yield the same results for everyone, and teeth may not all whiten to the same degree. The extent of teeth whitening can vary by several shades, which means teeth with more staining or discoloration may not achieve the same level of whiteness as teeth that were originally whiter.
Is it possible to undergo teeth whitening treatment while wearing braces?
Normally, dentists recommend waiting until you finish your orthodontic treatment before considering a tooth whitening procedure. However, if you prefer not to wait, it is still feasible to whiten your teeth while wearing braces, although it may be more challenging and result in less even outcomes.
If you opt for a take-home whitening kit, the whitening tray will need to be custom-made to accommodate the brackets, preventing them from getting dislodged. If you undergo teeth whitening at a dental clinic, your dentist will work around the brackets.
After removing your braces, the areas beneath them might appear darker or more yellow compared to the rest of your teeth. To achieve a more even appearance, you may consider arranging a touch-up whitening treatment.
