At Beech Cottage Dental, we know that a bright, white smile can make all the difference in how you feel about yourself and how others perceive you. If you’re struggling with discoloured or stained teeth, we want you to know there is a solution. 

In this post, we’ll be sharing our top teeth whitening tips and tricks to help you achieve the beautiful, confident smile you deserve. So, let’s get started!

What causes teeth to become discoloured?

Teeth discolouration can be brought on by a variety of factors, including bad diet and oral care, medication use, and even smoking. Almost everyone worries about their teeth losing their pearly white shine, but the good news is that there are plenty of teeth whitening techniques available that can help. 

However, not all whitening strategies are created equal, and the most effective option for you will depend on the underlying cause of your discolouration.

What are the different types of teeth whitening options available?

There are two main types of teeth whitening solutions: 

• Over-the-counter teeth whitening (take-home whitening kits)
• Professional teeth whitening (in-office procedures)

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can be purchased at a shop or online. Professional teeth whitening is performed by a dental professional.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening methods

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products and home kits are typically less expensive and can be used at home. These products include:

• Whitening toothpaste
• Whitening strips
• Gels
• Custom trays

 However, they may not be as effective as professional teeth whitening and can take longer to produce noticeable results.

What are the best take-home teeth whitening products?

Whitening Strips

This is an affordable option that contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, which will help you whiten your teeth. It will take longer to see results, but it allows you to make your own schedule and take breaks if you have sensitive teeth.

Custom trays

To get started with custom tray teeth whitening, you’ll first need to schedule an appointment with your dental clinic to have an impression taken. This simple process allows for a precise fit, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness. Once your custom tray is ready, you can easily apply the bleaching agent recommended by your dental professional.

Professional teeth whitening treatment

Professional teeth whitening is generally safer and more effective than over-the-counter options. This is because dental professionals use stronger whitening agents and can tailor the cosmetic treatment to your specific needs. 

Imagine stepping into the dental office with dull, lacklustre teeth and walking out with a captivating, radiant smile that turns heads wherever you go. Laser whitening and Zoom teeth whitening can make this dream a reality.

Laser whitening, also referred to as power whitening, is an advanced teeth whitening treatment that should only be performed by a dentist. During the treatment, we apply a bleaching solution to the teeth and then use a laser to activate the whitening process. This technique is highly effective and can produce visible results in just an hour.

Philips Zoom whitening is a cutting-edge procedure that harnesses the power of hydrogen peroxide gel and a special LED light to deliver remarkable results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. This advanced technique has gained immense popularity and praise for its effectiveness in achieving remarkable whitening results.

Unlike take-home whitening kits that can take weeks or even months to show noticeable results, Zoom offers immediate and dramatic improvements in just a single office visit.

What are the different types of Zoom whitening methods?

The Zoom QuickPro method is an excellent choice for those who are new to teeth whitening or simply want to touch up their smile without undergoing a full whitening treatment. With immediate and noticeable results, Zoom QuickPro offers a convenient and time-efficient solution.

In just 30 minutes, the QuickPro treatment can lighten your teeth by up to 4 shades, leaving you with a noticeably whiter and brighter smile. This in-office whitening option is perfect if you desire a quick transformation and prefer a more affordable alternative to a complete whitening treatment.

On the other hand, if you want dramatic, instant results, Zoom WhiteSpeed is the solution. In just 45 minutes, this powerful treatment can leave your teeth up to 8 shades whiter, providing a remarkable transformation that will leave you beaming with confidence.

WhiteSpeed is specifically designed to tackle a wide range of stubborn stains caused by factors such as smoking, ageing, and certain medications. Its advanced technology sets it apart from other whitening methods and has been proven to deliver superior outcomes.

You can also opt for the following Zoom take-home whitening kits:

• DayWhite– designed to accommodate your busy schedule.
• NiteWhite– specifically designed to be used during your sleep.

 But, you must have a consultation with your dentist, who will guide you in choosing the best home whitening option tailored to your needs.

Are there any risks associated with teeth whitening?

 Some risks are also associated with teeth whitening, such as tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. However, these risks are usually minor and temporary.

Before undergoing teeth whitening, it’s essential to consult with your dental professional to determine if it’s a suitable treatment option for you. We can also help you choose the best type of whitening treatment based on your individual goals and preferences.

What makes you a good candidate for teeth whitening?

When it comes to professional teeth whitening, there are many factors that can determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for the treatment. 

Teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s not recommended for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Individuals undergoing chemo or radiation
• People with certain dental conditions (e.g., cracked enamel, cavities)

But don’t worry, if you have healthy teeth and gums and discoloured teeth due to ageing, genetics, or lifestyle factors, you may be the perfect candidate for professional teeth whitening! 

Seek advice from a dental care professional first and with their help, you’ll achieve a brighter, more confident smile that you’ll be proud to show off.

What can you expect during the professional whitening process?

Firstly, you’ll have a consultation with your dentist or dental hygienist to discuss your goals and oral health. Before the whitening gel is applied, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned. The gel may be applied directly to your teeth or to custom trays that fit over them.

You may have to wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the light or laser used to activate the gel. Multiple applications may be necessary to achieve your desired level of whiteness. 

After the treatment, the excess gel will be removed, and your teeth may be rinsed or cleaned. You may also receive post-treatment instructions, such as avoiding certain foods or drinks. 

Depending on the treatment, you may need follow-up appointments to monitor your progress or perform touch-up treatments. 

How often should I whiten my teeth?

You should keep in mind that teeth whitening isn’t a permanent solution. The duration of the whitening effect can vary from person to person, typically lasting anywhere from a few months up to 3 years. 

Factors such as diet, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits can affect how long the whitening lasts. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can prolong the results of your teeth whitening treatment. 

Regular brushing and flossing, avoiding foods and drinks that stain your teeth, and scheduling touch-up appointments with your dentist can all help you maintain a brighter, more confident smile.

What you can do to prevent your teeth from becoming discoloured

Here are some additional tips and tricks to maintain a healthy and white smile:

Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and prevent staining.

Limit staining foods and drinks: Try to avoid or limit the consumption of foods and beverages that can cause staining, such as:

• Red wine, tea and coffee
• Acidic and citrus food
• Curry and tomato sauce
• Sports and energy drinks
• Sweets and sodas

 If you consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterwards and brush your teeth.

For whiter teeth, you can eat apples as they contain malic acid, a natural whitening agent that can dissolve stains and leave your teeth looking brighter. Another great snack option is celery, which promotes saliva production to help dissolve stains and contains fibrous cellulose that acts as a natural exfoliator. 

If you love sipping on juices, smoothies, or cocktails, try using a straw to reduce direct contact with your teeth. This can help prevent surface stains and protect your enamel. 

Quit smoking: Smoking not only stains your teeth but also increases your risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking can help improve your overall oral health and give you a brighter smile.

Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups prevent and treat teeth discolouration. 

How Beech Cottage Dental can help you

At Beech Cottage Dental, we understand the importance of a confident smile, which is why we offer teeth whitening appointments on short notice. Our free initial consultation allows us to assess your teeth and listen to your goals for tooth whitening. 

Don’t let fears hold you back, our friendly team will discuss the different methods available and put your mind at ease. It’s important to note that every patient is unique, and results may vary. 

While teeth whitening can help you reach your desired shade, some colours may be harder to achieve. But don’t worry, our skilled dentists will go over all the details during your appointment.

Get ready to brighten your smile and boost your confidence with Beech Cottage Dental! Book an appointment today.