Welcome to today’s blog – a guide to the best way to whiten teeth. We’re going to cover what’s involved, why to have it and treatment eligibility. We’ll also cover risks and benefits, so you can make an informed decision. Of course, our experts here at our Tunbridge Wells dental practice can answer any questions or concerns; find our contact details at the end of the blog.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure aimed at brightening your smile by removing stains and discoloration from the enamel and dentin layers of your teeth. It involves using bleaching agents or whitening products to achieve a whiter shade.

Why have teeth whitened?

First of all, let’s consider why you might look into this popular treatment. Well, teeth whitening helps to remove stains, restore your smile’s natural glow and even anti-ageing your smile. In other words, whatever your age, you could enjoy a brighter, more uniform and more youthful smile.

What treatment do you use?

We use Philips Zoom and Enlighten teeth whitening. Both are industry leaders proven to be safe, reliable and effective. Your teeth could be up to 8 shades’ whiter for a truly dazzling result. We can also offer both at-home and in-chair treatment.

What are the teeth whitening effects?

Possible sensitivity – but usually this is temporary, if it does occur. As you might be aware, the teeth whitening industry is tightly regulated, but to be extra safe (and sure), only book treatment at a dental practice with staff registered with the general dental council (GDC).

Who can do teeth whitening?

According to the GDC, teeth whitening can only safely and legally be offered by registered dental professionals in the UK. Some beauty salons might offer the service within the country which is not legal, but we always recommend seeing a dental professional for teeth whitening services or advice. There are a range of home teeth whitening kits that are readily available to purchase which provide a convenient way to brighten your smile, but they come with potential risks. While generally safe when used correctly, overuse or misuse can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or enamel damage. It’s crucial to follow instructions carefully and consult with a dentist beforehand to ensure safety.

Can you whiten my teeth?

Yes, most people are suitable for treatment, subject to a consultation. The only thing to bear in mind is that teeth whitening can sometimes make your teeth feel temporarily sensitive (though this is usually easily managed), so might not be recommended for someone with sensitive teeth. It’s also not possible to whiten restorations such as crowns, veneers, dental implants and more. We recommend having teeth whitening carried out before these procedures, if possible.

How can I keep my teeth white?

Whether or not you choose to have teeth whitening treatment here at our Tunbridge Wells dental practice, there are a few changes you can make to keep your smile bright. These include:

* Good oral care – this will prevent discolouration caused by a build-up of food, plaque and bacteria

* Avoiding smoking – this is one of the leading causes of teeth staining, on account of the tar in the smoke. Vaping may also discolour teeth

* Avoiding red wine and coffee – these are two of the worst drinks you can have in terms of staining. If you do want to drink them, ensure you brush and floss afterwards to reduce the chances of staining. 

What’s my next step?

You can book a virtual consultation with our team; just follow the link to find out how. We’re looking forward to elevating your smile – and your confidence – here at our Tunbridge Wells dental practice.

To find out more ways to help keep your teeth whiter for longer, read our article here.