Teeth whitening: safe options and the results to expect

A brighter smile can do a lot for your confidence, and whitening is one of the simplest, quickest cosmetic treatments. Still, it's worth knowing the safe options and realistic results before you start.

Why do teeth darken?

• Drinks such as tea, coffee and fizzy drinks.
• Smoking.
• Age: the enamel thins and the yellower dentine underneath shows through.
• Internal causes, such as some medicines or an old root-canal-treated tooth.

Whitening options

In-clinic whitening

The dentist first protects your gums, then applies a concentrated whitening gel to the teeth for a set time. You see the result in the same visit, which suits anyone who wants a quick change before an occasion.

At-home whitening, supervised by your dentist

Custom trays are made to fit your teeth, and you wear them with a lower-strength gel for a few hours a day over a few weeks. The result comes gradually and tends to be stable.

Pharmacy products and charcoal

Whitening toothpaste only removes surface stains, and charcoal products and popular home remedies can scratch the enamel and increase sensitivity. Whitening is always best done under a dentist's supervision.

Does whitening damage teeth?

Done correctly and at the right strength, whitening is safe for enamel. The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity for a few days, which eases with a sensitivity toothpaste or by whitening at home less often.

Who should avoid or postpone whitening?

• Anyone with decay or gum inflammation — treat that first.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women — usually postponed.
• Children and young teenagers.

Important: whitening does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers. If you have any of these on your front teeth, your dentist will advise the best order of treatment.

How to keep the result

• Drink less tea and coffee, and rinse with water afterwards.
• Stop or cut down smoking.
• Brush twice a day and have regular scaling and polishing.
• You may need a top-up session after a while, depending on your habits.

Results vary from person to person, depending on your natural tooth colour and the cause of the darkening. Book a consultation at our 6th of October or El Saff branch and the dentist will recommend the option that suits you.