We all know that a brighter and straighter smile can leave a great first impression on others. One treatment that can make a big change and can help you get the ‘Hollywood smile’ effect is teeth whitening. It’s extremely popular and is ideal for people with healthy gums and teeth who wish to improve their overall appearance.
When it comes to teeth whitening, you’ve got two options, getting them whitened at a clinic or in the comfort of your own home. We spoke to Dr Carmen Colomar, an associate dentist at Moira Wong Orthodontics, shes a highly talented and accomplished orthodontist based in London who has extensive experience in all aspects of dentistry. She let us know the advantages of teeth whitening at home and how it compares to treating your teeth at a clinic.
Who is eligible for home whitening?
Almost everyone over 18 years-old who has had a recent check-up to assess that they’re dentally fit, that they’re not pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the advantages of teeth whitening at home?
It is safe, easy to use and the majority of patients find it comfortable. The results are predictable and stable in time.
The main side effects of all types of whitening include: reversible sensitivity, it goes a few days after the treatment is completed. Most people experience it to some degree.
How does it work?
The dentist makes custom whitening trays for the patient to load whitening gel into their home, they’re made of a flexible material that moulds to your teeth. All the whitening gel products contain one of two active ingredients: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The peroxides penetrate the enamel and reach the stain molecules in the dentine and break them away.
Daily applications are required, depending on the severity of the case and the age of the patient. The treatment should usually last 2 to 6 weeks. Severe cases with tetracycline staining (antibiotics discolouration) may need treatment for months.
Does it damage teeth?
Not at all.
Is there a difference between online whitening kits and kits from dentists?
Yes, over the counter/online gels contain much lower concentrations, up to 0.3% of carbamide peroxide (or up to 0.1% of hydrogen peroxide), and at the dentist from 10 to 16%.
What aesthetic results can patients realistically expect?
It does not whiten crown/veneers, fillings or dentures though the treatment is very predictable. It has over a 95% success rate.
To begin teeth whitening at home or for more information on dental treatment, you may like to book an appointment with a leading orthodontist such as Dr Moira Wong. Click here to visit her profile today.