Everything you need to know about teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is one of our most popular cosmetic dental treatments here at AP Smilecare, and accordingly, it’s one that we frequently get a lot of questions about from our patients.

Now, the first thing that’s really important for us to say is that yellow teeth are not necessarily unhealthy. In fact, it’s a perfectly normal sign of ageing. Basically what happens is that as you grow older, the outer layer of your teeth enamel wears away, exposing the yellow of the dentin underneath. It may not be anything to worry about, as long as you’re practicing good oral hygiene.

On the other hand though, it can sometimes be a warning symptom of unhealthy teeth, especially if it appears to have happened relatively quickly. And either way, even if they’re not a symptom of any immediate issues with your dental health, yellow teeth can still sometimes have a big impact on your confidence – and that alone is a big reason why teeth whitening in Blackburn is such a popular treatment.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a process that involves bleaching your teeth to make them lighter in colour by several shades. Your teeth won’t necessarily come out bright white after the treatment, but they will look noticeably lighter. The level of whitening depends on the natural shade of your teeth and the type of discolouration being treated. During your consultation, your dentist will assess your teeth, discuss your goals, and explain what kind of results you can realistically expect based on your individual case. This ensures a treatment plan tailored to your needs, helping you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

How does teeth whitening work?

The whitening process is typically carried out using hydrogen peroxide in gel form. This chemical releases oxygen free radicals, which work by breaking down the colour molecules responsible for staining the teeth. These larger, darker molecules are reduced into much smaller, less noticeable particles, which effectively diminish the appearance of stains. Over the course of the treatment, this breakdown significantly lightens the shade of the teeth, leading to a visibly brighter, cleaner smile.

(The treatment is particularly effective on surface stains caused by common culprits like coffee, tea, wine, and smoking, and can provide long-lasting results with proper care and maintenance.)

At AP Smilecare we put the hydrogen peroxide gel formula into custom made dental trays, made to fit your teeth. We also use a combination of peroxides to maximise your teeth’s whiteness in the shortest time possible. This process is repeated daily for between 1-4 hours, depending on the treatment we have recommended for your teeth.

When will I see results?

You will usually see a difference in the colour of your teeth after a few weeks. It takes a minimum of 10-14 days to get the full effect, and you’ll really notice the difference when you do.

Once your teeth have been whitened, it’s important that you continue to look after them properly to prevent them from becoming discoloured or stained again.

My local spa does teeth whitening and I’ve seen some great products on the high street, so why should I choose a dentist?

It’s important to visit an experienced dentist who can assess the health of your teeth and gums before the treatment. Without the right expertise and equipment, teeth whitening can damage the teeth, lips and gums.

Our products are tailored to your teeth, from the formulation right through to the custom made trays. The combination of peroxides we use are also far superior to anything you’ll find in spas or on the high street.

What are the causes of yellow teeth?

Yellow teeth can arise from various factors, and while they might sometimes be linked to concerning causes, they are not necessarily a major issue on their own. One common cause is poor oral hygiene, which can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, giving the teeth a yellowish appearance. However, this can often be managed with improved brushing and regular dental cleanings.

Diet also influences tooth colour. Foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain teeth over time. Similarly, smoking and tobacco use can result in yellowing, but these habits have broader health implications beyond just tooth colour.

Ageing naturally causes teeth to yellow as the enamel wears down and the underlying dentin becomes more visible. Genetics can also play a role, with some individuals having naturally darker teeth due to their enamel thickness or natural hue.

Medications and excessive fluoride exposure during childhood can contribute to intrinsic staining, but these cases are typically less common.

It’s important to remember that while yellow teeth can be a sign of underlying issues, they are not necessarily a major flaw or cause for embarrassment. Many people have naturally yellow teeth and may find that a professional whitening treatment can enhance their smile, but it’s equally valid to embrace the natural colour of your teeth if it doesn’t bother you.

What’s the minimum age for teeth whitening in the UK?

In the UK, the minimum legal age for professional teeth whitening is 18 years old, as set by regulations from the General Dental Council (GDC). This age restriction helps ensure that individuals undergoing whitening treatments have fully developed teeth and gums, reducing the risk of potential side effects.

Teeth whitening involves the use of bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, which can cause sensitivity or irritation, especially in younger individuals whose enamel may not be fully matured. Additionally, teeth and gums in younger people may be more prone to adverse effects from whitening agents.

While some teenagers might be eager to brighten their smiles, it is advisable to wait until they reach the minimum age for professional treatments. During this time, focusing on good oral hygiene and avoiding foods and drinks that stain teeth can help maintain a healthy smile.

For those who are 18 or older, a consultation with a dental professional is necessary to determine if teeth whitening is suitable based on their oral health and individual needs.

What options do you have available?

We have two packages available:

To find out more about either of these packages, or to book a consultation to discuss teeth whitening, give us a call on 01254 297 000 or pop into our practice located in Blackburn.