Teeth Whitening

Devonshire Dental Care offers a complete teeth whitening service.

What can tooth whitening do?

Teeth whitening in Scotland, offered at our practice, is a very simple yet effective way of swiftly lightening the shade or colour of your teeth. It also does not require any removal of tooth surface. These methods can only lighten the existing shade of teeth, not change the colour entirely.

What does a teeth whitening procedure involve?

The dentist will apply a special whitening product using a tray that fits over the teeth, much like a gum or mouthguard. The whitening formula is then heated up, thus activating its whitening properties. Sometimes a special light is used instead of heat. The ingredients in the formula that whiten the tooth is usually carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. The process is then repeated until the desired shade is achieved.

How long do tooth whitening procedures take?

Usually, using this method, a number of two or three visits will be required. During the initial visit your dentist will take a mould impression of your teeth in order to make the special whitening tray. Once the first whitening treatment is finished you will be required to continue treatment at home, applying the whitening formula for periods of up to an hour during the next two to four weeks. Some products can allow for the same results to be achieved within a week.

Why might my teeth need to be whitened?

Everybody will have his or her own feelings and opinions, but like everything else our teeth colour varies from person to person. Very few people have a naturally brilliant white smile. Teeth will also tend to become more yellow with age and become stained by foodstuffs such as coffee and tea. Excessive build-up of tartar will also change the appearance of teeth colour, as it has a darker yellow shade. Tooth whitening may also be necessary for those who have staining inside their teeth or those affected by antibiotic staining.

How happy am I likely to be with the results?

The original shade of the teeth will have an effect on the final results of tooth whitening treatment. Everyone is different, but the effects usually last from between one and three years. The initial period after treatment can result in tooth sensitivity, however this wears off quite quickly.

What about home whitening kits?

Home whitening kits that can be purchased freely over-the-counter have been proven to be much less effective than professional whitening. They only contain small amounts of the peroxide bleaching agents and the results do not last as long. Some products are even abrasive and contain acids so, while they might be cheaper, they can change your teeth and gums. It is advised that whitening treatment is done professionally by a dentist after thorough assessments and evaluations of your teeth.

Will teeth whitening not work at any point?

Whitening might not work in achieving the desired shade of white that you were looking for. It only works on natural teeth and not on any type of false tooth fittings including dentures, veneers and crowns. These fittings can only be whitened if they are professionally cleaned or in most cases replaced entirely. However, if a specific change of tooth shade is desired then veneers might be a good option.

Can I use whitening toothpaste?

There are a number of whitening toothpastes available. However, they do not affect the natural colour of the tooth, which is why teeth whitening in Glasgow from our experienced dentist is so highly valued. Instead, they help to remove stains on the tooth surface, thus improving the look of the tooth that way. Once teeth have been whitened professionally, whitening toothpastes might help in maintaining their improved appearance.