Teeth Whitening
What if I want to have my teeth whitened?
When you first visit, we give you a clinical check to ensure that your teeth are suitable for whitening. We will also take impressions of your teeth to make the special trays you will need to whiten your teeth. When the trays are ready we will instruct you on how to use the special teeth whitening gel, the treatment time recommended and answer any questions you may have at the time.
We have also included some frequently asked questions that may help further down this page.
How does teeth whitening work?
There are multiple types of teeth whitening solutions available. At Newport Orthodontics we recommend a home whitening kit, which allows you to lighten your teeth to the desired shade. This kit is only available from dentists.
When the whitening product is applied to the tooth, it attacks the long stain molecules to effectively break them down to be short and colourless. These short and colourless molecules are then naturally removed from the tooth by saliva. The product we supply will take from 90 minutes to overnight to take effect and you may need several days treatment to reach your desired shade.
Details of the whitening treatment we recommend:
- Fluoride releasing
- The addition of fluoride remineralises the tooth surface assisting in reducing post-operative sensitivity
- Contains desensitising agent
- The 16% strength gel contains a desensitising agent which acts on the nerve endings, and desensitises them at the pulp-dentin border, in turn minimising sensitivity and maximising patient comfort
- Neutral pH - the neutral pH ensures the full release of the peroxide without jeopardising patient comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the whitening treatment last?
This depends on you and your oral habits. Teeth whitening should be repeated every 6 – 12 months for both In Office and Take Home solutions. Without a touch up, your teeth will start to re-stain by the same things that caused them to discolour in the first place. Speak to your orthodontist to discuss your options.
Can we predict a result?
Teeth whitening is generally very predictable but everyone is different. Speak to your orthodontist to discuss the cause of staining and which type of whitening would be most suitable to your needs.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes. Clinical studies have shown that bleaching with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide, if done correctly under the application or instruction of a dentist or orthodontist, is safe for teeth and gums.
Are there any side effects?
For people who follow the instructions from their dentists, the majority will have no side effects. However, some people can experience temporary sensitivity (dull or sharp, sensitivity to hot or cold). This will subside after several hours of stopping the treatment and won’t leave any residual problems. The wear times can be shortened or made less frequent or teeth can be treated with a desensitiser. It is best to stay away from carbonated drinks, citrus foods and beverages to avoid sensitivity.
How long does it take to whiten my teeth?
Using our home whitening system, it can take from just 5 days but some cases will need up to two weeks.
Will my teeth just keep getting whiter the longer I use the gel?
No – your teeth cannot whiten past their natural shade. Teeth whitening should be discontinued when the teeth don’t appear to change any more or when desired shade is reached. It is recommended that you take photographs of teeth pre-treatment to use as a comparison throughout the whitening process.
Is teeth whitening recommended during pregnancy?
It is not advised to have your teeth whitened during pregnancy.
