Health

Types of Teeth Whitening Available

Home Teeth Whitening Kits

These kits typically include custom-made trays and a whitening gel. Patients apply the gel to the trays and wear them for a specified period, usually a few hours a day or overnight.

After an initial consultation, dental impressions are taken to create custom-fit trays. The patient is provided with the whitening gel to use at home.

Advantages. Convenience of home use, more affordable teeth whitening cost compared to in-clinic treatments, and gradual whitening over a few weeks.

In-Clinic Laser Whitening

Description: Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed is an advanced in-office teeth whitening treatment that delivers impressive results in just over an hour. Using LED light technology, it can whiten teeth up to six shades lighter in a single session, effectively reversing stains from food, wine, and medications.

Process:

  1. Initial Assessment: The dentist begins by recording your current teeth shade.
  2. Preparation: Your gums and teeth are prepared for the whitening process, followed by the application of the Zoom whitening gel.
  3. LED Activation: The Philips Zoom LED light is used to activate the whitening agents in the gel, significantly speeding up the whitening process.
  4. Repetition: This cycle is repeated four times to maximize the whitening effect.
  5. Post-Treatment Care: A protective gel is applied to the enamel to minimize sensitivity. Additionally, you receive custom whitening trays and a home whitening kit for maintenance.

Advantages. This treatment offers immediate and noticeable whitening results under professional supervision, ensuring safety and effectiveness. The procedure is quick, typically taking just over an hour, and provides a comprehensive solution with both in-office treatment and a take-home kit for ongoing maintenance.

Legal and Safety Concerns with Online Sellers

In the UK, it’s illegal for non-dental professionals to sell teeth whitening products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. This regulation is in place to protect consumers from potential harm, as high concentrations can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums.

Risks of Illegal Teeth Whitening Products

– **Unsafe Chemical Levels**: Products sold online may contain dangerously high levels of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which can cause burns, blisters, and permanent damage to the enamel.

– **Lack of Professional Supervision**: Without the guidance of a dental professional, users might misuse the products, leading to overexposure and increased risk of adverse effects.

– **Quality and Authenticity**: There’s no guarantee of the quality or authenticity of products bought from unregulated sellers, increasing the risk of using substandard or harmful chemicals.

There are concerns about the sale of illegal whitening products online, which often contain unsafe levels of chemicals. These unregulated products pose health risks such as chemical burns and increased tooth sensitivity. The General Dental Council has highlighted the rise in illegal whitening practices, stressing the importance of using products that comply with safety regulations.

Safe Teeth Whitening at home with retainers from Whites Dental in London

Home teeth whitening with retainers is increasingly popular due to its convenience, affordability, and effective results. These kits allow individuals to whiten their teeth at home, typically at a lower cost than in-clinic treatments. Custom-fitted retainers ensure the whitening gel is applied evenly, enhancing the effectiveness and providing consistent results. This method offers flexibility as users can whiten their teeth on their own schedule without the need for frequent dental visits. Advances in whitening gel formulations have made these treatments more efficient and safer, yielding professional-grade outcomes with regular use.

In the UK, about 41% of adults are interested in teeth whitening, with many opting for home kits because of their ease of use and cost-effectiveness.

Philips Home Teeth Whitening

Custom Trays: Made from impressions of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit and even distribution of the whitening gel.

Whitening Gel: Typically contains a safe concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, prescribed by a dentist.

Usage: Wear the trays with the gel for a specified period each day, as directed by the dentist, for gradual whitening over a few weeks.

Enlighten Home Teeth Whitening

Excellent Quality Kits: Begins with two weeks of home treatment using custom trays and gel.

Guaranteed Results: Enlighten is known for its ability to achieve a guaranteed B1 shade, the lightest natural shade.

Reduced Sensitivity: The system is designed to minimize sensitivity, making it suitable for most patients.

Choosing a Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment

When considering teeth whitening options, especially those used with retainers, it’s crucial to opt for treatments supervised by dental professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. Home teeth whitening kits and both the Philips and Enlighten systems offered by reputable clinics like Whites Dental provide safe and effective solutions. It’s important to avoid illegal online products with unsafe chemical levels, as they pose significant health risks.

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