What causes teeth to darken
Coffee, tea, red wine, smoking and some medicines stain the surface over time. Teeth also darken naturally with age as the enamel thins and the darker dentine beneath shows through more. The two respond differently to whitening, which is why an assessment comes first.
Before whitening anything
We check for decay and gum disease first, and clean the teeth. Whitening an unhealthy mouth is uncomfortable and gives a poor result. If you have crowns, veneers or white fillings on the front teeth, be aware that these do not change shade, so they may need replacing afterwards to match.
A realistic expectation
Whitening produces a noticeable lightening, not a fixed shade you can pick from a chart. How much depends on your starting point and the cause of the discolouration. We will tell you honestly what we think is achievable in your case before you commit to it.
Common questions
Will it make my teeth sensitive?
Some sensitivity during and shortly after treatment is common and settles within a few days. Tell us if you already have sensitive teeth.
How long does it last?
Typically one to three years, depending on how much you smoke, and how much coffee, tea and red wine you drink.
Is it safe?
Carried out by a dentist after a proper check, yes. The concern with shop-bought and online kits is the lack of any examination beforehand.