Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures that is available today in most cosmetic dental clinics in London. Many people are unhappy about the colour of their teeth and feel that they would like them made whiter. Teeth can get stained or discoloured due to a variety of factors. Some of these include smoking, aging, chemical staining, taking certain types of medication, drinking certain beverages like tea, coffee and colas. Teeth can also get discolored due to damage to the roots.

Another often ignored but significant factor in teeth discolouration is the role of genetics. Different people have got different enamel shades and the fact that your teeth do not look bright does not necessarily mean they are unhealthy. That could be their natural shade.

Whatever the cause of teeth discolouration, teeth whitening as a cosmetic procedure can be used to improve their colour.Several techniques are used to whiten teeth. These are mild acid whitening, abrasive tooth brightening, chemical whitening and laser whitening. Laser whitening is the latest and most advanced form of teeth whitening.

The procedure of teeth whitening will vary according to the condition of the patient's teeth. Normally, the cosmetic dentist’s first tries to do an abrasive cleaning procedure on the teeth. Once the abrasive cleaning is over, the cosmetic dentist then uses teeth bleach to further brighten the teeth. If the teeth are very badly stained (usually by chemicals or certain drugs), the cosmetic dentist might decide to use a whitening gel that is applied and then activated by a laser beam. Below is a run down of the various teeth whitening procedures.

In-Office Laser Bleaching

As the word suggests, this procedure is carried out in the clinic. A whitening gel is used in conjunction with a laser .The gel is translucent and once it is applied to the teeth, a laser beam is shone onto it. The gel absorbs the laser's energy and increases the lightening effect of the teeth. The result is teeth that are whiter. The length of time that this procedure takes will usually depend on the degree of discolouration. Good results can be achieved in a single visit to the cosmetic dentist.

In-Office Teeth Bleaching

This technique is the most common. It is also reasonably priced .A bleaching abrasive is used to whiten the teeth. If the teeth are badly discoloured, this technique can be used together with the laser.

Teeth Veneers

Although teeth veneers are not part of the teeth whitening process itself, they are often used after the teeth whitening procedure is complete. They are ideal for teeth that are broken, chipped, with small cavities or severely discoloured.They typically cost less than dental crowns and have the advantage of lasting for a long time.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are bought in stores and are used for teeth whitening at home by the patient himself. The strip is worn by the patient for a period of half an hour to one hour everyday. The faster strips take about one week to achieve complete bleaching while the slower ones take up to a month. Whitening strips can also be used with other in-office whitening techniques.

If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, call Perfect Smile Spa for a free consultation on 01708 442114 or email: care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk