Are you dreaming of a dazzling smile that can light up a room? Teeth whitening procedures have come a long way in recent years, making it easier than ever to achieve that radiant, pearly white smile you’ve always wanted. In this quick guide, we will explore various teeth whitening options available today, ranging from professional teeth whitening at-home kits and over-the-counter options. We will discuss the different methods, their potential outcomes, and most importantly, the importance of choosing a safe and proven approach.

As a leading provider of dental care in West Sussex, Vitality Dental is committed to helping you achieve your smile goals, and we’ll even share our current whitening offer to get you started on your journey to a brighter, more confident smile.

Understanding Teeth Discoloration

Before diving into the world of teeth whitening, it’s essential to understand what causes teeth discolouration in the first place. Several factors contribute to stained or discoloured teeth, including:

• Food and Beverages: Consuming dark-coloured foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries can lead to teeth staining over time.
• Smoking: Tobacco or vaping can cause unsightly stains on your teeth.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting regular brushing and flossing can result in plaque buildup and yellowing of teeth.
• Aging: As we age, our enamel naturally thins, allowing the yellowish dentine beneath to show through.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as an antibiotic called tetracycline, can cause teeth discoloration when taken as a young child during tooth development.
• Mouthwash: Some strong mouthwashes can stain your teeth. Corsodyl is an example of a staining mouthwash.

Now that we understand the common causes of teeth staining let’s explore the various teeth whitening options available to help you achieve a brighter smile.

Best-Option: Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is the most effective and fastest way to brighten your smile. These treatments are administered by dental professionals who have the expertise to ensure both safety and excellent results. They consist of at-home kits but they are prepared, supplied and approved by us. We also monitor the process with regular reviews.

Teeth Whitening Convenience

Practice supplied at-home teeth whitening kits have gained popularity for their convenience and professional, effective whitening formula. These kits include custom-fitted trays and a whitening gel containing a concentration of peroxide. Your initial visit with us is to determine the target shade of white desired for your teeth, followed by an impression of your teeth so our whitening lab can build a custom-fitted whitening tray for your teeth.

At-home teeth whitening procedure

To use an at-home kit, you’ll fill the custom trays with a small amount of whitening gel and wear them for a prescribed amount of time each day. The gradual process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the patient, product and the level of whitening desired.

Whitening Results

At-home kits deliver noticeable results, and they offer a more gradual and subtle whitening effect compared to some in-office procedures, which can be very advantageous for those with sensitivity concerns.

When used as directed, at-home teeth whitening kits are very safe. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully to avoid overapplication of gel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.

Consultation with a dental professional, like those at Vitality Dental, is important and will guide you to the right product and ensure it is suitable for your specific needs.

Option 2: Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels, are available at pharmacies and online retailers. They provide a cost-effective and accessible option for those looking to whiten their teeth at home but at the same time are less powerful and can take longer to achieve the right effect.

Using OTC whitening products is generally straightforward. Whitening toothpaste can be used daily in place of regular toothpaste, while strips and gels are applied directly to the teeth according to the product’s instructions.

OTC teeth whitening products often yield more subtle results compared to professional treatments. They may be suitable for maintaining the brightness of your smile after professional whitening or for addressing minor surface stains but they will not be able to deliver substantial colour change.

Choosing the Right Teeth Whitening Method

When deciding which teeth whitening method is right for you, consider the following factors:

• Severity of Stains: If you have severe staining or discolouration our custom in-home kits are probably the best for you. For whitening maintenance OTC products may sometimes suffice.
• Time Sensitivity: If you need quick results for a special occasion, the custom at-home kits are your best bet.
• Sensitivity Concerns: If you have sensitive teeth or sore gums, please attend a consultation with us at Vitality Dental. We can recommend the most suitable method and provide solutions to minimise discomfort.
• Budget: Consider your budget when choosing a whitening method and balance the results to the treatment cost. A safe and predictable at-home treatment may cost a little more but you will get much better longer-lasting results.
• Longevity: The longevity of results can vary. OTC products may require periodic touch-ups.

A brighter, whiter smile is within your reach, and Vitality Dental is here to help you achieve it. In this quick guide, we’ve explored various teeth whitening procedures, each method offers its advantages, depending on your unique needs and preferences.

At Vitality Dental, we prioritise your safety and satisfaction. Our state-of-the-art dental clinic in West Sussex is staffed by experienced professionals dedicated to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. To kickstart your journey to a brighter, more confident smile, we are excited to offer you teeth whitening treatments bespoke to your teeth. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a radiant smile that will leave a lasting impression.

Don’t wait any longer – brighter days and a brighter smile await you at Vitality Dental.