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TEETH WHITENING
HOW DOES TEETH WHITENING WORK
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that is used to lighten the colour of teeth. It is a popular procedure that is recommended by dentists to improve the appearance of teeth and restore a more youthful and vibrant smile. Teeth naturally become stained due to ageing and various foods and drinks we consume daily. While regular dental visits, including scaling and polishing, as well as dental hygiene visits, can combat the ageing of our teeth, it is sometimes not enough. At Woodbourne Dental, we can provide and assist you with a professional home whitening kit, under the supervision of one of our dentists. We can provide a custom-made whitening tray that fits your mouth perfectly, so that you avoid any of the whitening gel and reduce any unnecessary gum irritation or damage.
WHAT IS TEETH WHITENING?
To change the colour of your teeth, you may need to employ teeth whitening products. Teeth whitening is a popular technique that can give your smile that extra ‘sparkle’, by lightening the shade of your teeth considerably. Teeth whitening works by using a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to break down the molecules that cause discolouration. The active ingredient is usually applied to the teeth in the form of a gel and then activated with a special light. The teeth whitening procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the discolouration. After the procedure, patients should be aware that their teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few days. Home whitening kits are available, but patients need to follow their dentist's advice on how to use teeth whitening correctly, as improper use can be damaging.
WHICH TEETH WHITENING PRODUCTS DOES WOODBOURNE DENTAL USE?
Boutique Whitening
Boutique Whitening was built by a dentist with a simple dream: to make the life-changing power of a beautiful smile accessible to everyone. Their unique blend of whitening gels creates the ultimate whitening experience. With the brightest minds in dentistry, chemistry, and manufacturing across the UK, Canada and the USA, they perfected the art of teeth whitening. At Woodbourne Dental, we use 16% Carbamide Peroxide (by night) from Boutique by Night, with 4-6 hours of wear time. Boutique by Night whitens your teeth while you sleep. It is a high-strength formula designed for people who want rapid results without the inconvenience of wearing trays during the day.
Biomin Toothpaste
Biomin Toothpaste works with Boutique Whitening gel to reduce sensitivity and replace lost minerals in your teeth. It contains a special glass material that slowly releases fluoride, phosphate, and calcium over 12 hours. As it dissolves, it forms a protective layer called fluorapatite on your teeth, which makes them much stronger against acid. The Biomin particles also bond to the enamel and help block the tiny channels (dentinal tubules) that cause sensitivity. This keeps your teeth healthier and more comfortable. Combining this specialised toothpaste with teeth whitening treatment not only makes your teeth look brighter but also prevents the tooth sensitivity that may result from frequent use of whitening products.
THE WHITENING PROCESS
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Book a check-up appointment where the dentist will examine your teeth and gums to make sure your teeth are ready, restore cavities and take moulds for your whitening trays.
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Your unique mould will be sent to a laboratory where whitening trays will be made that fit your mouth precisely.
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You’ll receive your trays from the dentist and start using them at home with the whitening gels. In two to three weeks, you can unveil your beautiful new smile.
HOW DOES TEETH WHITENING CHANGE THE COLOUR OF MY TEETH?
Tooth whitening gels lighten the colour of your own teeth. These products contain peroxide that bleaches the tooth itself rather than just removing stains. The peroxide gels come in different concentrations, with higher concentrations being more effective. Home whitening may take a week or more to achieve the best results, although whiter teeth may be visible after just one application. To avoid staining your treated teeth in the future, it is advisable to reduce smoking and strongly coloured drinks, including red wine, espresso coffee and cranberry juice. Additionally, patients should brush and floss their teeth twice a day and use a special whitening toothpaste.
IS TEETH WHITENING SAFE?
Teeth whitening is suitable for most people, but it is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or patients with gum disease or cavities. It is advisable to undergo teeth whitening only after consulting a qualified dentist, to ensure that teeth whitening chemicals do not damage your teeth or result in other health problems. Our dentists at Woodbourne Dental are trained to advise patients on teeth whitening for optimal results and can provide guidance on how to look after your newly brightened teeth to ensure long-lasting whiteness.