Bleaching (Teeth Whitening)

Cosmetic Dentistry

Bleaching (Teeth Whitening)

Bleaching can whiten stained or discoloured teeth. This technique is not appropriate for people with certain oral symptoms or conditions. It is important that a qualified dentist examines your teeth prior to commencing teeth whitening.
What is the procedure involved with Teeth Whitening?
Teeth can be whitened in several ways depending on the cause of discoloration

1. Internal Bleaching – This is done for Non-Vital teeth that have discoloured following a root canal treatment. A bleaching gel is placed inside the tooth for a few days. This procedure may have to be repeated depending on the severity of discoloration

2. External Bleaching can be done for stains or external discoloration. This can be done in chair by the dentist or at home with special trays and bleaching gel provided by one of our dentists.

In Chair Whitening
A stronger bleaching gel is applied to your teeth while protecting the gums with a dam. The process is repeated a few times over 90 minutes. Light or laser may be used to enhance the activity of the bleaching gel.

This process can cause sensitivity in some people as the gel is a higher concentration of acid. It is also recommended to still use the take home whitening kit for best results.

Take Home Whitening
Special trays are made from an impression by your dentist. These trays hold the gel close to the teeth and prevent contact with gums. These trays with the gel must be worn 30 mins to 2 hours during the day.

Alternately, some gels can be used in the trays overnight. A lower concentration of gel is used for home whitening reducing the chances of sensitivity. Good results are usually achieved in two weeks.

Considerations

  • Highly sensitive teeth may not be suitable for whitening
  • Whitening works best for teeth with a Yellow, Brown or Orange stains. Grey coloured teeth may not whiten to a similar extent
  • Some white fillings maybe need to be replaced after whitening
  • Some teeth may not whiten evenly