There is nothing better in life than finding something that makes you smile!  It instantly makes you feel better and somehow the day just doesn’t seem so bad!  Not that we’ve had much to smile about in the last few weeks especially with the football but don’t worry Andy Murray is about to change all that and bring a smile to Murray Mount!

So just to make sure you are looking your finest, why not have your teeth whitened and we thought it might be nice to just give you a little guide courtesy of our friends at the Cosmetic Clinic@ and Dr Stephen Hennessy.

So here are some frequently asked questions that will go a long way to help you!

1)      What methods are there for teeth whitening?

 Either “in surgery” or at home methods are available. In surgery uses a light/laser to speed up the process and takes about an hour. The at home method uses very thin bespoke moulds containing a special gel which are worn for an hour a day for 7 days

 

2)      Which method is best?

Most dentists find the at home treatment more predictable, less uncomfortable ,gives better and longer lasting results as the special gel is in contact with the teeth for a longer time overall a deeper ,more thorough whitening is achieved

 

3)      Is it harmful to the teeth?

 No. Studies have shown the whitening process does as much damage as a can of cola. The gel is a form of peroxide and works by oxygen bubbles penetrating the layers of the teeth and breaking down the stain/discolouration.

 

4)      How white can the teeth go?

This varies from person to person but everyone will see a difference. Some people’s teeth can take longer than others to reach the final shade and not everyone will achieve the same end shade as this depends on the individuals teeth .However, the majority of people will see a very significant change.

 

5)      Is it painful?

Only mild sensitivity is generally felt for 24 hours after whitening. The “power “ (in surgery) whitening can cause more severe , longer lasting sensitivity.

 

6)      How long does the new colour last?

The new colour will last for many years but is dependent on oral hygiene and if the diet is rich in coloured food/drink when the colour may fade quicker. Most people will top up the treatment to maintain the colour by wearing the moulds for a few hours every 6 months or so

 

7) Does it whiten crowns and fillings?
 

No. Any method of whitening only works on natural tooth

 

8) Any downsides?
 

Not really, it has been used for many years and done correctly causes no harm. However, do only let a dentist whiten your teeth, as it is illegal for anyone else to do so because there have been cases of permanent harm being caused to teeth and gums. These cases have arisen when unqualified people using different materials have performed the whitening, which has caused the enamel to dissolve or gums to recede. These problems cannot be reversed

 

9) How much does it cost?  

On average the cost is around £300 for the at-home method, with the laser whitening around £500.Prices a lot cheaper than this will generally be from someone who is not a dentist and hence not properly insured and more likely to be using inferior/dangerous products.

 

10) Will I get the same result from whitening toothpastes ?

No. Only professional whitening will give you noticeable results. Some toothpastes may remove a little more staining than others but none will significantly change the colour of your natural tooth structure.

 

For clinic locations refer to the website:- www.thecosmeticclinicat.co.uk or call 01772 774630.