What does tooth whitening involve?

Professional bleaching is the most common form of tooth whitening. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment, and will supervise it if you are. First the dentist will put a rubber shield or a gel on your gums to protect the soft tissue. They will then apply the whitening product to your teeth, using a specially made tray which fits into your mouth like a gum-shield. The ‘active ingredient’ in the product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth colour is made lighter.

A. Tooth whitening is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration and removes stains from the enamel and dentine of the teeth. Professional bleaching is the most common form of tooth whitening. During your consultation the procedure will be discussed with you to determine if tooth whitening is suitable for you. An impression of your teeth will be taken with a dental alginate gel. This will be used to make a thin, clear tray which will fit tightly over your teeth. You will be given a gel containing a bleaching agent and fluoride. You simply place some of the gel in the tray and place it over your teeth every night for one to two weeks. Just keep going until your teeth are white enough. Is the process safe? A. Yes. Research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth with carbamide peroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide under the supervision of a dentist is safe for teeth and gums. In fact, many dentists consider this whitening process the safest cosmetic procedure available ...

Professional bleaching is the most common form of tooth whitening. Your dentist will apply the whitening product to your teeth, using a specially made tray which fits into your mouth like a gum-shield. The ‘active ingredient’ in the product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth colour is made lighter. Once your dentist has started this treatment you will need to continue it at home.  more