FAQ’s
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a dental procedure during which a suitable peroxide-based solution is used returning the teeth back to the shade they may have been previously, or sometimes even lighter.
What types of teeth whitening are available and what does it involve?
We offer both home and in-surgery teeth whitening options at Belvedere Dental Practice.
All professional teeth whitening requires an assessment to ensure you are dentally fit and that teeth whitening is an appropriate treatment for you, your options for teeth whitening can then be discussed and a treatment plan provided with a full cost breakdown.
Home whitening requires impressions or scans of your teeth from which models are made and whitening trays are produced to fit your teeth (like a thin gum shield). Your dentist will then demonstrate to you how to load the trays and use the whitening gel at home. Home whitening gels come in Daytime and Nighttime solutions which can be chosen based on convenience. Both achieve similar results.
In-surgery whitening still requires trays to be made for use after the in-surgery session. In-surgery whitening uses a peroxide-based gel applied to the teeth and a light to accelerate the process. This is a blue light, not a laser. Lip retractors are put in place and the gums are protected during the process.
The active ingredient in the whitening product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel and dentine on the teeth and the tooth is made lighter.
How long does this take?
The total length of the treatment can vary depending on how discoloured your teeth are and the shade you want to get to. This is usually within two to four weeks, but sometimes can be longer.
Home whitening Day time solutions are usually 30-60mins per session, while Nigh time solutions are worn overnight.
In-surgery whitening aims to achieve the result during a 1-2 hour session, and requires some “top up” whitening at home afterwards.
How long will my teeth stay whiter?
The effects of whitening varies from person to person. Normally the new white colour of your teeth keeps quite well. The effect is dependent on what caused the teeth to discolour in the first place. If you drink coffee, red wine, cola drinks, smoke or eat foods that are more likely to stain , this will reduce the time the teeth stay whiter.
What are the side effects?
Some people may find that their teeth become sensitive to cold during or after the treatment. Others may have discomfort in the gums, a sore throat or white patches on the gum line. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing.
When might tooth whitening not work?
Tooth whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. Also it only works on natural teeth. It will not work on any types of false teeth, such as dentures, crowns and veneers or fillings.
About Belvedere Dental Practice
Belvedere Dental Practice in Workington is a reputable dental clinic that offers a wide range of high-quality dental services for both children and adults. With a team of experienced and skilled dentists, the practice provides comprehensive oral health care, including routine check-ups, preventive treatments, restorative procedures, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency services. The clinic’s child-friendly environment is designed to make young patients feel comfortable and at ease during their visits, helping to build positive associations with dental care from an early age. Using state-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques, Belvedere Dental Practice ensures that patients receive the most effective and personalized treatment plans to achieve optimal oral health outcomes. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a complex intervention, the professional team at Belvedere Dental Practice is dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to your individual needs.