If you are concerned about the shade of your teeth, you might consider a whitening treatment.
If you have noticed stains and discolouration on the surface of your teeth or are simply concerned that your smile appears duller than you would like, you might be a suitable candidate for a whitening treatment. The good news is that most people are suited to this popular and effective cosmetic treatment. One of the most affordable options is to have whitening trays custom-made for you and to actually whiten your teeth at home — read on to find out what the process involves…
What are teeth whitening trays?
Custom-made teeth whitening trays look much like a mouthguard designed to protect the teeth from sports injuries. Just like a mouthguard or clear aligner, custom teeth whitening trays are made to fit over the teeth comfortably and securely. A specially formulated whitening gel is placed in the trays, which are worn at home for a recommended length of time. Because the trays are fabricated for each individual patient, the whitening gel should not cause any damage to the gum tissue.
How do whitening trays actually work?
If your dentist has confirmed that you are a suitable candidate for at-home whitening trays, they will begin the treatment process by making impressions of your teeth in order to create moulds. Your whitening trays will then be fabricated based on these moulds.
Once your trays are ready, you will take them home along with a bleaching solution. The bleaching solution is placed within the trays, which you will need to wear for around 45 minutes every night for one to two weeks, depending on your particular concerns and aesthetic goals. You will need to see your dentist for a follow-up visit after around two to three weeks to ensure that your results have been achieved.
Why consider whitening trays?
Both in-office and take-home whitening trays are effective options, so the treatment that you choose will really depend on your personal preference, budget and lifestyle.
Custom whitening trays take longer to achieve results when compared with in-office bleaching, but many people prefer whitening their teeth from the comfort of their homes. Because the trays are custom-made, they feel very comfortable, and the risk of gum irritation and discomfort is minimal compared with over-the-counter trays that you might find at a pharmacy.
As long as you adhere to your dentist’s instructions, you can expect to enjoy excellent results within a week or two of using your whitening trays. To make the most of the treatment and maintain your results for as long as possible, it is important that you practice proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. You should also avoid any foods and drinks that can stain your teeth — some of the most common culprits include tea, coffee, wine, dark berries and tomato-based sauces.
It’s also a good idea to see your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans. Your dentist will advise you on the best time to undergo another whitening treatment.
How can we help?
At My Dental Care @ West End, we offer a range of cosmetic treatments designed to enhance the appearance of your smile, including teeth whitening. If you would like to brighten your teeth and are considering a professional treatment, you will have the choice of an in-office bleaching procedure or a take-home whitening kit. Our take-home whitening kits include a set of custom-made bleaching trays that are made especially for you, as well as a bleaching material that you will need to apply at home.
To find out more about your teeth whitening options at My Dental Care @ West End, please have a look here.
To see the full list of treatments we provide at our practice in Brisbane, please have a look here. To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call at (07) 3846 2548.
