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Teeth Whitening Questions Answered
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular and affordable treatments offered by cosmetic dentistry in Basildon. True, you can buy over the counter kits to whiten your teeth, but the results aren’t anywhere near as good as you get from a professional treatment and with something as important as your teeth, it’s always best to get advice from your dentist before going ahead with teeth whitening of any sort. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions and answers regarding teeth whitening.
How can I tell if teeth whitening is a good option for me?
If you don’t like the colour of your teeth and you’re considering whitening them, then the first step is always to have a dental examination complete with X-rays, to find out why your teeth are discoloured. As a rule the optimum level of whiteness for your teeth is one that matches the whites of your eyes.
Are there any reasons for me not to whiten my teeth?
A dental examination may show that you need some dental treatment prior to teeth whitening. For example tooth discolouration can be caused by decay, root canal problems, or an abscess and in instances like this, then bleaching won’t mask the problem. There are also aesthetics to consider. For example if you show a lot of gum when you smile due to short teeth, then whitening them will only highlight this issue. In addition, if you have exposed tooth roots or visible fillings, then the results won’t be ideal since these things don’t bleach. Instead you might want to consider other treatments such as porcelain veneers.
Can whitening damage my teeth?
As a rule, no. However, bleaching can cause increased sensitivity. Your Basildon dentist will be able to whiten your teeth using a branded tooth whitening gel which is less likely to cause any sensitivity than a product bought over the counter. He’ll also take an impression of your teeth so that custom trays can be made for a snug fit to avoid any bleaching gel leaking out and damaging your gums or other areas of the mouth.
How long will my teeth remain white?
No teeth whitening process is permanent and how long it lasts varies from one individual to another. Typically it can be anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. To make the results last as long as possible it’s important to attend regular 6 monthly check-ups with your dentist and to refrain as much as possible from consuming food and drinks, which may have stained your teeth in the first place, such as red wine and coffee. You should also refrain from smoking. Often you can have the whiteness touched up when necessary by using a home whitening kit from your dentist.
If you’re considering teeth whitening in Basildon then get in touch with Felmores Dental Care. We offer two types of teeth whitening: power whitening which takes no longer than an hour before you’ll see great results; or home whitening trays which take around 2 weeks to reach the desired results. Give us a call today on 01268 726789 to make an appointment or contact us via our website at www.felmoresdentalcare.co.uk.