Teeth Whitening in Woodstock

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that uses a whitening agent to lighten the natural colour of the teeth. The degree of change varies from person to person and depends largely on the cause of the discolouration.

At Vansittart Dental, whitening begins with an assessment of the teeth and gums, and the options suited to each patient are discussed at the consultation.

Tooth discolouration can affect the outer surface of the teeth or develop within the tooth structure. Common causes include:

• Coffee, tea and red wine
• Smoking and other tobacco use
• Plaque and tartar build-up
• Natural changes to the teeth with age
• Injury to a tooth
• Certain medications taken while the teeth were developing

Surface staining generally responds better to whitening than discolouration within the tooth. Some surface stains and tartar can also be removed during a professional cleaning.

Over-the-counter whitening products, such as strips, gels and whitening toothpastes, are used without a dental examination. Whitening toothpastes may help remove some surface stains but generally do not change the natural colour of the teeth.

Professional whitening includes:

• An examination of the teeth and gums before treatment
• Identification of the cause of discolouration
• Treatment of any decay or gum disease first
• Supervision by a dentist
• Advice on sensitivity and maintaining results

Teeth whitening may be suitable for patients with healthy teeth and gums whose discolouration is caused by food, drinks, tobacco or age.

Whitening may be less suitable, or may need to be postponed, for patients with:

• Untreated decay or gum disease
• Crowns, veneers or fillings on visible teeth, as these do not change colour
• Discolouration caused by injury or certain medications
• Significant existing tooth sensitivity

When visible crowns, veneers or fillings are planned, whitening is often completed first so they can be matched to the new shade. Where whitening is not suitable, veneers or crowns may be considered as alternatives.

1. Consultation and examination

   The teeth and gums are examined, the cause of the discolouration is identified, and the suitability of whitening is assessed.

2. Treatment of oral health concerns

   Any decay, gum inflammation or loose dental work is addressed before whitening begins.

3. Review of options

   The whitening options suited to the patient, the number of appointments and the associated costs are explained before treatment is booked.

4. Whitening treatment

   Treatment proceeds according to the agreed plan, with guidance provided on managing sensitivity and maintaining the result.

Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation during or after whitening, which usually settles once treatment is complete.

Patients with existing sensitivity are asked to mention it at the consultation so it can be taken into account when planning treatment.

Whitening results are not permanent, and staining may gradually return over time. The rate at which this occurs depends on diet, habits and oral hygiene.

Recommendations for maintaining results include:

• Brushing twice a day and flossing daily
• Limiting coffee, tea and red wine
• Avoiding smoking and other tobacco use
• Rinsing with water after staining foods and drinks
• Attending regular check-ups and professional cleanings