If you are embarrassed by having stained teeth, then you need to speak to our dentist Richmond and find out about teeth whitening to improve their colour. There are many teeth whitening toothpastes available at the supermarket. However, they only produce very temporary results and before you know it, your teeth are yellow again. Not all teeth whitening products that are available at the supermarket are safe, and you should always ask our dentist Richmond for advice before you try to whiten your teeth. Some of these products may have high levels of acid which can dissolve the enamel on the surface of your teeth. Studies show that almost 60% of teeth whiteners bought online contain illegal and dangerous levels of hydrogen peroxide and some of these products also contain sodium perborate, which is known to cause cancer. Using over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause sensitivity and can damage your teeth in the long term.
Teeth whitening at the dental practice
Teeth whitening with our dentist Richmond is highly effective and safe at the same time. It uses a small amount of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide to whiten your teeth, depending on the type of treatment that you choose. Our dentist can whiten your teeth at the dental practice itself. This can be done in a 60 to 90 minute session. Your lips and gums are protected and teeth whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide is applied directly to the surface of your teeth. This is activated using a UV light to break down stain molecules quickly into smaller molecules that can be wiped away with your saliva. This will reveal beautiful white teeth, and transform the appearance of your smile. Whitening your teeth at the dental practice with our dentist is an excellent solution for those who are looking for a quick transformation before a special occasion.
Before they begin our dentist will make sure that your teeth are clean and healthy and that your gums are free of disease. Sometimes teeth whitening can irritate affected teeth and gums, therefore, the dentist will make sure that it is suitable for you before they carry out the procedure. Those with sensitivity may find that their symptoms worsen, so you may need to improve your dental health before you whiten your teeth. This will include maintaining better dental hygiene, undergoing professional cleaning by your dentist and making sure that your teeth are free of cavities, tooth decay and gum disease.
Whiten your teeth at home
You may wish to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home. This is a more gradual and more gentle treatment process. It lightens your teeth over a period of 2 to 3 weeks depending on how yellow or stained your teeth are to begin with. Our dentist will create a set of custom-made teeth whitening trays to fit over your teeth with accuracy and precision. A carbamide peroxide gel is inserted into the tray and the tray is worn in your mouth for a short amount of time during the day and whilst you sleep overnight. This breaks down stain molecules into smaller molecules which can again be wiped away, using your saliva to reveal the white enamel underneath. Speak to our dentist today to find out more.