Teeth Whitening

At Shawlands Dental Care, we are proud to offer a range of teeth whitening treatments to help our patients improve their smile.

Our product range includes at-home, in-chair, and combination whitening treatments.

How does teeth whitening work?

The active ingredient in teeth whitening gels is a concentration of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This bleaching agent works by changing the colour inside the teeth (dentin) and removing stains from your tooth enamel.

Am I a good candidate for teeth whitening?

For most people teeth whitening produces excellent results. But, teeth whitening won’t lighten teeth with dental restorations. It only works on naural teeth and superficial surface stains.

Teeth whitening can exacerbate sensitive teeth, so if you suffer from sensitivity, your dentist may advise against the treatment.

Whitening treatments are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women because the impact of the whitening chemicals on the foetus or breast-feeding baby is unknown.

Is teeth whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening is safe under the supervision of your dentist. Bleaching gels have a neutral pH level, but they can irritate your gums and the soft tissue in your mouth if they aren’t used correctly.

Do I have to come into the practice for teeth whitening?

Many of our teeth whitening treatments are designed for use at home. If you opt for home-based whitening, you will need to attend an initial appointment. Your dentist will assess your teeth and gums to ensure you are suitable for the treatment.

They will also take an impression of your teeth and gums and have a custom-fit whitening tray made for you. The treatment itself will take place on your own time and in the comfort of your own home.

Once you have your whitening tray, you can also purchase additional tubes of the whitening gel to top up your treatment as needed.

Is teeth whitening permanent?

Teeth whitening is not a permanent solution for stained teeth. Your enamel remains porous, so food, drinks, and tobacco can still stain your teeth.

Your dentist can provide you with aftercare advice and recommend touch-up products you can use to keep your smile bright.

You can extend the lifespan of your teeth whitening procedure by practising good oral hygiene and visiting your dental hygienist for regular cleanings.