What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a very effective way if you’d like to lightening the color of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. Know this earlier that it cannot make a complete color change, but it may lighten the existing shade.

Why would I need my teeth whitened?

Good question!

let’s just simply understand and admit that our teeth can become discolored as we get older while very few people can have brilliant white teeth. Because each of us is totally different, and just as our hair and skin color vary, so do our teeth.

Another obvious fact is your teeth is like sponge so it can also be stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant. Most of all smoking can also stain teeth.

“Calculus” or tartar can also affect the color of your teeth. Some people may have staining under the surface, which can be caused by certain antibiotics or by tiny cracks in the teeth which take up stains.

What does tooth whitening involve?

Here it goes …

Professional bleaching is the most usual method of tooth whitening. Our dental team will be happy to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment, and will be professionally supervise it if you are.

First step is the dental team will put a rubber shield or a gel on your gums to protect them.

Second phase is they will then apply the whitening products to your teeth, using a specially made tray which fits into your mouth like a mouthguard.

This is the process that actually occurs …

The “active ingredient” in the product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the active ingredient is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth color is made lighter.

How long does this take?

Well the total treatment can usually be done within three to four weeks. What??

Let me tell you why …

First, you will need two or three visits to the dentist. Our dental team will need to make a mouthguard and will take impressions for this at the first appointment.

Once our dental team has started the treatment, you will need to continue the treatment at home. This means regularly applying the whitening product over two to four weeks, for 30 minutes to one hour at a time.

If you think four weeks is too long, there are now some new products which can be applied for up to eight hours at a time. This means you can get a satisfactory result in as little as one week.

How can I look after my teeth once they have been whitened?

Please be discipline because you can help to keep your teeth white by cutting down on the amount of food and drinks you consume that can stain teeth. Remember! Stopping smoking can also help prevent discoloration and staining.

Our dental team recommend the following tips to take care of your teeth:

• Always remember to brush your teeth as the last thing to do at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Limit your frequent consumption on sugary foods and drinks.
• Visit our dental team at Hydromedical Canggu regularly, as often as they recommend.

Need more advice?

If you need professional advice and appointment for your oral health contact our dentalcare line 08229995911. Monday to Saturday, 8am-10pm.