Teeth Whitening

Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about teeth whitening!

At the Forum we pride ourselves on using the best, most up to date and tried and tested products, whatever the procedure.

Teeth whitening is no exception. So you can assured about the quality of our teeth whitening system as well as the expert advice and treatment you will receive.
Here are the answers to just a few of the questions you might want to ask about the process of bringing the best out of your smile and the confidence that comes with it…

Quite simply:
Teeth whitening is a process that makes the colour of the teeth lighter and whiter through an oxidation process. We can get sparkling white teeth and a more beautiful smile thanks to teeth whitening.  White teeth do not only improve our appearance –they give us a better self image and affect how people perceive us. It may sound like magic – but its pure science.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is actually a tooth bleaching process, which lightens stains and discolorations on the tooth enamel and dentine. The active ingredient in the teeth whitening gel is Carbamide Peroxide. It penetrates the tooth enamel and dentin, changing and lightening the colour of the stains. The stains and dentin are turned whiter and whiter by the teeth whitening process until the desired whitening result is obtained.

How is a whitening treatment done?

The whitening is achieved by putting whitening gel into an individually customized tray that is placed over the teeth. The whitening process starts the moment you put the mouth tray over the teeth. Then you wear the tray for three to four hours per day or overnight for three to four weeks, depending on how white you want your teeth.
The whitening kit contains silicone mouth trays, a protective box to keep the trays clean when not in use, and the bleaching gel containing Carbamide Peroxide. We routinely provide 10% and 16% concentration of the gel. The 10 % is used initially - this helps to eliminate sensitivity in the first few days, followed by a slightly more powerful concentration of 16%. The dentist will give you full instructions on how to use your Kit.

Are there times when whitening can’t be used?

Teeth whitening will only work on natural teeth and will not lighten the colour of white fillings or caps. If you want to discuss this further please speak to the dentist.

How should I look after my teeth after whitening?

Cut down on the amount of food and drink that stain teeth – for example coffee or red wine. This will not preserve the teeth but maintain the whiteness for as long as possible.

How long do the effects last?

Teeth whitening can last for two to three years and even longer in some patients. However this may vary depending on diet and other factors such as smoking.

Does it hurt and what are the side effects?

The carbamide peroxide gel doesn’t cause any damage or harm to your teeth, gums or fillings. The treatment is completely safe and should not cause the patient major pain.  However, the majority of people will experience some kind of sensitivity either during and/or after the initial treatment.

Most people suffer no reaction, although there may be tingling sensations. The treatment is completely safe and any sensitivity experience can be managed.

At the Forum we’re with you every step of the way with this process – on hand for advice and helping to ensure you get sparkling results.