Confessions ... Of Tooth Whitening

Confessions…

Tooth Whitening 

If it’s out there I have tried it.

I've always had an obsession with “good” teeth.  Maybe its from when I was a baby and my first gift as a new born was a peppermint coloured tooth brush – my dad, bless him, thought babies had teeth! I can honestly say I didn't and got them at the normal age.

Now everyone's perception of good teeth is different. If you ask your dentist it’s all about healthy teeth and gums, not needing any restorative treatment. If you ask an Orthodontist is more to do with how they are positioned and how they bite together.

My Nan might say "a set that don’t fall out when you talk" – (meaning her dentures)

For me it’s several things the health, the alignment and the all important shade.

Tooth whitening has been around for ages.The first time I had my teeth whitened was for my 18^th birthday in 2008. I went to a salon and had quite an invasive treatment. I was left with sensitivity, burnt gums and disappointing results.

However, things have moved on a lot since then. There are lots of products on the market claiming to whiten your teeth: Toothpastes, mouthwash, gels, pens, paper strips, electric tooth brushes. You name it, its claiming to provide results.

I’m not saying that all the products you can buy in the shops don’t work. Quite the contrary, if you brush your teeth 2-3 times a day and use an electric teeth brush you may see some lifting of surface stains. Having regular hygienist appointments will also help to remove stubborn stains and calculus from your teeth. 

Diet plays a big part as well as genetics.Some people have naturally darker teeth. Also if you have darker skin the colour of your teeth can appear whiter than in comparison to someone with lighter skin. If you eat and drink heavily staining foods such as red wine, teas, soy sauce, curry on a regular basis your teeth are more likely to darken quicker than someone who doesn't. Smoking is another stain devil that can really darken your smile.

My advice to anyone wanting whiter teeth is to up your oral hygiene routine, quit smoking and reduce staining foods from your diet. If you want further whitening results I suggest you go to a dentist.

In the UK there are strict rules as to the strength of bleaching agents – they are much lower than the US.

Whitening teeth can cause sensitivity and you must remember that tooth bleach will only lighten enamel. It won’t lighten fillings, veneers or crowns.

Having a consultation with your dentist will let you know if it’s suitable for you. They can also provide you with your current shade and possibly give you an indication as to how white your teeth will become with the system they use.

The cost of whitening varies from practice to practice. On average from what I have seen is the cost is from £200-£500.

The dentist may whiten your teeth in his surgery, he may make some trays for you to take home that you use every day to whiten your teeth. Alternatively he may provide you with a combination of both. Tooth whitening if completed by a professional can be a lovely way to enhance your smile and your confidence. It doesn’t last a life time so top ups may be needed in the future.

There is a limitation to how white your teeth will go.  A lot of celebrities have very unnaturally bright smiles. The truth is it’s probably not natural. Many celebrities have crowns or veneers on their teeth made out of porcelain and choose a very white shade.

It’s all down to preference but I know I’d rather have a little more natural look than Simon Cowel. I don’t want to blind my friends when I smile at them – Speaking of friends, does anyone remember poor Ross’s experience?

Remember if you’re doing anything invasive go to a professional. Keep your teeth clean and keep smiling!