What is Teeth Whitening?

Tooth whitening can be a highly effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth, without removing any of the tooth surface.

There are a number of reasons why you might get your teeth whitened. Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour vary, so do our teeth. Very few people have brilliant-white teeth, and our teeth can also become more discoloured as we get older.

At-home Whitening with Enlighten

At Delph Dental Practice we use a professional home whitening kit, so the whitening is a safe, gradual change controlled by you until you get the desired level of whiteness.

Tooth whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. Also, it only works on natural teeth. It will not work on any types of 'false' teeth such as dentures, crowns, and veneers.

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Stain Removal with Airflow

Through a combination of our skill and care, plus your own oral hygiene efforts at home, you can ensure your teeth and gums remain in tip-top condition for life. Instead of filling decayed teeth, we believe in investing time in improving your oral care routine. This way all our patients can maintain a healthy, happy mouth.

AIRFLOW® gently removes plaque from teeth and gums by removing the biofilm off teeth and gums which is what plaque sticks to. It also uses warm water, helping patients who suffer from tooth sensitivity. As well as this, AIRFLOW® reduces the need to use a traditional scaler, which can be uncomfortable.

AIRFLOW® works through the projection of tiny, carbonated particles and water pressure combined in a high-powered jet which gently but effectively removes stains from teeth, including hard-to-reach areas. The AIRFLOW® Teeth Cleaning system provides incredible results without any risk of damaging your teeth. The results are immediate, and the difference is noticeable as soon as the AIRFLOW® dental treatment has been completed.

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Teeth Whitening FAQs

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any tooth surface. It cannot make a complete colour change, but it may lighten the current shade.

Why would I need my teeth whitened?

There are a number of reasons why you may wish to get your teeth whitened. Few people have brilliant-white teeth, and our teeth can also get more discoloured as we age.

Your teeth can be stained by food and drinks, for example, tea, coffee, or red wine. Smoking can also stain teeth. Some people may have staining under the surface, which can be caused by certain antibiotics or by tiny cracks in the teeth which take up stains.

What does tooth whitening involve?

Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment. You will need to have a set of impressions taken so you can have some bespoke whitening trays. The dentist will then show you how to use this. The ‘active ingredient' in the product is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As it is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth colour is made lighter. Before and after pictures will be taken at the practice, so you can see the changes.

How long does this take?

Once your dentist has started the treatment, you will need to continue the treatment at home. This means regularly applying the whitening product over two to four weeks or even longer, for 30 minutes to one hour at a time.

How long will my teeth stay whiter?

The effects of whitening are thought to last up to two years. However, this will vary on the individual. The whitening is less likely to last as long if you smoke, or eat or drink products that can stain your teeth.

What are the side effects?

Some individuals may find that their teeth become sensitive during or after the treatment. Others may have discomfort in the gums, a sore throat, or white patches on the gum line. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing. If any of these side effects continue call the front desk team who will make an appointment for you to see your dentist.

What about whitening toothpastes?

Although they do not affect the natural colour of your teeth, they may be effective at removing staining. Therefore, they may improve the overall appearance of your teeth. Whitening toothpastes may also help the effect to last, once your teeth have been professionally whitened.

When might tooth whitening not work?

Tooth whitening can only lighten your current tooth colour. It will not work on fillings, dentures, crowns, and veneers.

How can I look after my teeth once they have been whitened?

You can help to keep your teeth white by cutting down on the amount of food and drinks you have that can stain teeth. Stopping smoking can also help prevent discolouration and staining.

Book a Consultation at Delph Dental Practice

If you are considering joining the practice, or you want to learn more about a specific treatment such as Invisalign® teeth straightening, you can book a consultation online now…

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Patient Reviews

On time, polite and patient oriented.
The dentist kept you informed about the ongoing procedures at all times and was constantly concerned about my comfort.
When all was finished I could not feel any rough bits or unevenness, that has to be a good sign of a "job well done".
Restored my faith in Dentists, thank you all.

Martin Wilson

By far the best dentist I've ever seen. Extracted 2 teeth very quickly and with no pain. Were very reassuring regarding my anxiety and explained everything as they went along. All in all, everything was perfect!

Doktress Melange

Wow, Ratna and the dental nurse were absolutely awesome, so careing and understanding and although I was still nervous I have been 3 times now and had all the treatment I needed, I have joined the silver monthly plan and I will definitely be going back every 6 months. Thank you The Delph.

Elizabeth Makin

I always see John for any treatment and he’s amazing. I’ve always been frightened of seeing the dentist in the past due to very bad experiences, but with John he always puts me at ease and the treatment is spot on.

Amanda Smith

Best experience I’ve ever had at a Dentist. Laura and her team were fast and efficient and made me feel right at ease.

Matt Bettany

Always recieve excellent care and service by John and I am more than happy to recommend
this dental practice and give an easy and well deserved 5 stars.

Ian Watson