Teeth Whitening
One of the first things that people notice about you are your teeth and smile. They are important for our health and daily life. Most of us would like our teeth to not only be healthy, but to look great as well. How white your teeth look makes a difference. Fortunately, with whitening treatment this is something you can control and change. Give your teeth a whiter, brighter and healthier appearance at Wandsworth Dental Centre.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
A brighter and younger smile
Appear more attractive and beautiful
Most cost-effective treatment to dramatically improve your smile
Create memorable first impressions
Boost your self-confidence and self-esteem
Non-invasive easy to carry out and has predictable results
Remove discolourations and stains on teeth
Look your best for big days like weddings or job interviews
Common causes of teeth staining
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Dark coloured and stain prone foods such as beetroot, chocolate, tomato sauces, and spices such as turmeric.
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Prolonged use of chlorhexidine mouthwash
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Certain antibiotics such as tetracycline if taken under the age of 12
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Intake of tobacco, whether through cigarettes, roll ups or hookah
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Dark coloured drinks such as red wine, black coffee/tea and soy sauce.
The Teeth Whitening process
First appointment
At the initial assessment, your dentist will assess your suitability for teeth whitening and discuss any points that need further consideration.
By taking the current shade of your teeth, the dentist can give you a clear idea of the expected results you can achieve.
If you are happy to commence with the whitening treatment, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory and are used to make the custom-made whitening trays that you will later use to whiten your teeth. It usually takes 2 weeks for the whitening trays to come back.
Second appointment
The dentist will first check the custom-made trays fit your teeth correctly. You will then be advised on how to safely carry out the whitening treatment. Your dentist will advise you on what to do before placing the trays in your mouth. And also how to adequately place the gel in the whitening trays.
What are the recommended wear times?
When using the Zoom DayWhite system, recommended wear time is 30mins twice daily. Optimal results will be achieved after 1-2 weeks.
With the Zoom NiteWhite system, recommended wear time is 4-6 hours or overnight. For optimal results will be achieved after 2-3 weeks.
General Aftercare
It is important to maintain routine check-ups with your dentist, normally twice a year. This is to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy and strong.
Brush twice daily and floss to effectively remove the plaque on your teeth.
We recommend using normal toothpastes after completing treatment. There is no need to use whitening toothpastes.
Are teeth whitening kits safe?
Teeth whitening should always be carried out under the supervision of a dental professional. When conducted properly, it is a very safe procedure with predictable results. During treatment, your teeth can become temporarily sensitive to hot and cold. The Zoom whitening gel has potassium nitrate integrated into the gel to reduce sensitivity during treatment. Potassium nitrate is the same ingredient used in many desensitising toothpastes.
Check with dental professional if using the kit is suitable for you.
