Stained or grey teeth can be significantly 'whitened' using advanced modern materials. The treatment is also called 'bleaching' or 'brightening'. More often, tooth whitening is undertaken in a dental practice. If done at home, it should still follow dentist instructions to ensure safe and effective results.

Need for a guiding hand

How many of us look at our teeth in the mirror and say 'I wish they were whiter?' We live in an aesthetically conscious world, which affects our teeth as it does the other parts of our body. Numerous products on the market, from toothpastes to special creams, promise a 'whitening effect'. But most of them are either ineffective or potentially harmful.

Choice of methods

In-surgery method

This involves applying a concentrated oxidizing gel to the teeth (either Hydrogen Peroxide or Carbamide Peroxide). The gums around all the upper and lower teeth are covered with a special protective rubber material. The lips and the tongue are gently 'kept out of the way'. A special light source applied to each tooth, or to all the teeth together, activates the bleaching process. The entire procedure takes 1-11/2 hours. During this time you can listen to music or watch a DVD. In the Cap600 practice we use the new 'BriteSmile' system or a dental laser, both imported from the USA.

We can usually achieve significant results after one visit, but further visits may be required to achieve the degree of whiteness that you desire.

At-home method

The dentist constructs special thin, light and transparent fitting trays from individual models of the patient's upper and lower teeth. A small amount of oxidizing gel (15% strength as opposed to 35% strength as used by dentists) is placed on the inside surface of each tray by the patient and worn overnight for about eight nights.

Can all teeth be whitened?

The whitening or bleaching process can work on all natural teeth, although the degree of whitening will depend on age and the initial colour of the teeth. Any 'man-made' material used on the teeth, such as crowns, veneers and fillings is not affected. In rare cases when teeth have been badly discoloured as a result of using antibiotics in childhood, whitening alone will be ineffective. More extensive cosmetic work will be required to achieve the whitening effect.

How long will whitening last?

The effects will last up to three years, gradually diminishing over time. It's unlikely that your tooth colour will revert totally to its original shade. Of course, if you pay attention to your oral hygiene, avoid heavily stained food and drinks as well as heavy smoking, you will prolong the whitening effect.

Should you start off with a consultation?

A dental consultation is not essential, but nevertheless advisable. Although tooth whitening is a simple procedure, it needs to be evaluated along with other aspects of smile and tooth enhancement. What is the shape and position of your teeth? What about crowns and fillings that will not whiten? How much whitening can you expect with your shade of teeth? What are your habits? How quickly do you want to see results? These questions help the dentist to determine the best possible treatment plan for you.

Tooth whitening can make a significant difference to your smile. It is an inexpensive and effective procedure, whether done at home or in the dental practice. Discuss all aspects with your dentist as part of a 'Smile Analysis' appointment.