With the surgery closed we understand that you might experience a dental problem that may need some attention. We have put together some of the common problems that you may be suffering and how you could self manage them during the COVID-19 crisis. As well as what to do with dental emergency.
Tooth whitening can be a highly effective, yet very simple way, of lightening the colour of teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. It cannot make a colour change, but lightens the existing colour.
What does the procedure involve?
The whitening product is applied using a specially made tray, which fits into the mouth like a gum shield. The active ingredient in the product is hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
This procedure is carried out at home, either for a few hours during the day or overnight. 3-4 applications per week are advised, usually for a period of 4-6 weeks, until the right shade is reached.
WHAT DOES TEETH WHITENING DO?
WHAT DOES TEETH WHITENING DO?
Tooth whitening can be a highly effective, yet very simple way, of lightening the colour of teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. It cannot make a colour change, but lightens the existing colour.
What does the procedure involve?
The whitening product is applied using a specially made tray, which fits into the mouth like a gum shield. The active ingredient in the product is hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
This procedure is carried out at home, either for a few hours during the day or overnight. 3-4 applications per week are advised, usually for a period of 4-6 weeks, until the right shade is reached.
How long does the procedure take?
First of all you will need 2 or 3 visits to your dentist. Your dentist will need to make a mouthguard and will need to take impressions for this at the first appointment. At the second appointment the trays will be fitted and you will be shown how to apply the whitening product. The treatment is then carried out at home as above.
A review will be carried out at approximately 4 weeks.
However, some newer products can be applied for up to 8 hours at a time, which means that a satisfactory result can be obtained in as little as 1 week.
Why would my teeth need to be bleached?
Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour varies, so do our teeth. Some teeth have a yellowish tinge, some are more beige – very few are actually ‘white’. Teeth also yellow with age can become stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee and blackcurrant. Calculus (tartar) can also affect the colour of the teeth. Some people may have staining inside their teeth. This can be caused by certain antibiotics or tiny cracks in the teeth, which take up the stain.
Will I be happy with the results?
Treatment results may vary depending on the original shade of the teeth. Teeth will tend to darken slightly over time. The effect lasts for around 1 to 3 years, although sometimes it can last longer.
Some people find that their teeth are sensitive for the first few days after treatment, but this wears off after a short while.
What about over the counter kits?
Over-the-counter kits are not recommended as they contain only a small amount of hydrogen peroxide which makes the product less effective. Some also contain mild acids, while others are abrasive.
Although these products are cheaper, whitening is a complicated treatment procedure and should only be carried out by a dentist after a thorough examination and assessment of your teeth. It is very important to follow the instructions your dentist gives you, and to make sure that you go for any follow-up appointments recommended.
When might whitening not work?
Whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. For a change to specific chosen shade veneering is another option. Whitening only works on natural teeth. It will not work on any type of ‘false’ teeth. This includes dentures, crowns and veneers.
If dentures are stained or discoloured, it may be worth visiting the dentist and asking him or her to clean them. Stained veneers, crowns and dentures may need replacing. Again, ask your dentist.
WHITENING FEES:
| TEETH WHITENING | £300.00 |
|---|
How long does the procedure take?
First of all you will need 2 or 3 visits to your dentist. Your dentist will need to make a mouthguard and will need to take impressions for this at the first appointment. At the second appointment the trays will be fitted and you will be shown how to apply the whitening product. The treatment is then carried out at home as above.
A review will be carried out at approximately 4 weeks.
However, some newer products can be applied for up to 8 hours at a time, which means that a satisfactory result can be obtained in as little as 1 week.
Why would my teeth need to be bleached?
Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour varies, so do our teeth. Some teeth have a yellowish tinge, some are more beige – very few are actually ‘white’. Teeth also yellow with age can become stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee and blackcurrant. Calculus (tartar) can also affect the colour of the teeth. Some people may have staining inside their teeth. This can be caused by certain antibiotics or tiny cracks in the teeth, which take up the stain.
Will I be happy with the results?
Treatment results may vary depending on the original shade of the teeth. Teeth will tend to darken slightly over time. The effect lasts for around 1 to 3 years, although sometimes it can last longer.
Some people find that their teeth are sensitive for the first few days after treatment, but this wears off after a short while.
What about over the counter kits?
Over-the-counter kits are not recommended as they contain only a small amount of hydrogen peroxide which makes the product less effective. Some also contain mild acids, while others are abrasive.
Although these products are cheaper, whitening is a complicated treatment procedure and should only be carried out by a dentist after a thorough examination and assessment of your teeth. It is very important to follow the instructions your dentist gives you, and to make sure that you go for any follow-up appointments recommended.
When might whitening not work?
Whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. For a change to specific chosen shade veneering is another option. Whitening only works on natural teeth. It will not work on any type of ‘false’ teeth. This includes dentures, crowns and veneers.
If dentures are stained or discoloured, it may be worth visiting the dentist and asking him or her to clean them. Stained veneers, crowns and dentures may need replacing. Again, ask your dentist.
WHITENING FEES:
| TEETH WHITENING | £300.00 |
|---|
AVAILABLE TO BUY AT THE SURGERY
St James Dental & Facial Aesthetics stock a range of home care products to help you care for your teeth and gums.
