Top 10 questions to ask about teeth whitening

Question 1: Does teeth whitening hurt?

Answer: You may  experience some kind of sensitivity either during and/or after the initial treatment.  This should settle down after approximately 48 hours.  It is advisable to avoid hot or cold food and drinks within the first 48 hours of your whitening treatment.

Question 2: Does teeth whitening work?

Answer:  Yes, if carried out by a trained dental professional. It is illegal for anyone other than dentists or their teams to carry out teeth whitening.

Question 3: How long does it take?

Answer:  Depending on which option suits you, it can take either 2 to 6 weeks for in-surgery teeth whitening combined with home based teeth whitening or with  ‘same day’ otherwise know as Zoom! it should only take up to 2 hours in-surgery.

Question 4:  What is the difference between in-house whitening treatments versus over the counter ones?

Answer:  Shop bought whitening treatments should only contain 0.1% of hydrogen peroxide, it is illegal & dangerous to sell any kits with a higher %. With in-house whitening treatments these can contain up to 6% of hydrogen peroxide, administering such treatment must be carried out by a trained dental professional and your suitability will need to be evaluated first.

Question 5: Am I suitable for teeth whitening?

Answer:   Many people are not suitable for teeth whitening and a dentist will assess your suitability during a consultation. If you have gum disease or other dental health problems, you may not be suitable.

Question 6: Will it damage my teeth?

Answer: No teeth whitening treatment should not damage your teeth if carried out by a professional dentist.

Question 7: How much whiter will my teeth look?

Answer:   Results vary from individual to individual, and also depends on the type of whitening system used. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the likely results following a consultation.

Question 8: How long will it last?

Answer:   Results can last indefinitely with some simple maintenance. You may need a top up, this will depend on the amount of staining products you consume. If you have home whitening trays you can top up as and when required.

Question 9: How much does it cost?

Answer:   The cost of whitening treatment varies. It usually starts from £395 depending on what treatment you choose and which is best for you.

Question 10: What do I do if I would like to undergo treatment?

Answer: Ask your dentist if you are a suitable patient. He/She will advise you on the best method and how much your tooth colour will improve. You should be dentally fit before treatment commences.

If you are considering teeth whitening why not book an initial appointment at one of our practices. Call Balham on 020 3432 9581, Clapham on 0203 432 4626, or Wandsworth Common on 020 8003 3539.

Written by the team at Ten Dental