Common Questions about bleaching and whitening

Does tooth lightening work as effectively on all teeth types?

No. Bleaching is most effective on teeth that have changed with age. It is much less effective with grey shades of teeth most usually as a result of tetracycline anti-biotic or amalgam fillings. Tetracycline can respond to bleaching, but the result is not predictable and can take up to 6 months to achieve. Alternatives such as veneers are often preferred.

Will tooth whitening lighten all the teeth evenly?

As a broad generalisation, the most discoloured tend to lighten the most. Occasionally the teeth can exhibit irregular spotting of more intense whitening - and in all but the rarest of cases, this effect disappears with continued bleaching. Research from the University of Alabama Periodontal Department found that all the tooth surface did not have to be in contact with the gel for all of the tooth to lighten, so it is important to persist with the full tray bleaching method.

Do over-the-counter bleaching kits work as effectively?

In truth, patients are frequently unsatisfied with commercially available products sold over-the-counter. The primary reason is that the effective strength of the bleaching solution sold is below that which is clinically effective. Correct strength solutions can only be prescribed by dentists. The same applies to the whitening toothpastes which are only in contact with your teeth for relatively short periods.