Don't be afraid to ask simple questions about the types of whitening treatment available, what results you can expect and how long they are likely to last. Philips data. Zoom 6% Whitening Gel Efficacy Test. Data on file. 2013. †Giniger et al Jada Vol. 136, March 2005 and Li et al Compend Contin Educ Dent. Vol 24(5) May 2003. The second difference is the level of hydrogen peroxide," she explains. "The EU some years ago prohibited the use of more than 6% hydrogen peroxide in a dental setting due to issues with safety of concentrations higher than this." It can also be difficult to keep the gel from getting on your gums which can cause damage to the tissue and irritation.

No matter what treatment you use, there's a chance your gums will be sensitive to the chemicals used in teeth whitening, particularly if you already have sensitive teeth. There's also a chance of burns to gums and some of the whitening kits used at home can harm tooth enamel. What if I'm not happy with the results? Any teeth whitening products you buy from a reputable high-street pharmacy should be safe to use. If you look online, though, you'll find numerous other options on offer. Products sold in other countries are regulated in different ways so it can be harder to know whether these are completely safe to use for teeth whitening at home. Your whitening kit will include instructions to tell you how much gel to use, how long to leave the trays in for, and how often to repeat the treatment. The timings are all dependent on the ingredients used in the products, and you should follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. Different application methods Snow is another good whitening kit that has gel pens that you use to paint the whitening gel directly on your teeth, or again you can just buy the refills. The whitening agent in this whitening gel contains hydrogen peroxide. Perhaps you've seen a whitening version of your favourite toothpaste at the supermarket and thought “It can't hurt to try”. Well, the thing is, it can hurt. Literally. Using an abrasive product like this can scratch awayyour tooth enamel and stains. When used over a long period (e.g. to brush teeth every day), many users experience increased sensitivity.

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The whitening gel itself has a rather nice mint flavour and, most importantly, doesn’t leave your teeth feeling overly sensitive. The resulting whiteness lasts for a good while, although some customers say Dr Dent is better for lifting pre-existing stains rather than achieving overall whiteness and brightness. The simplest way to keep your teeth whiter for longer is to avoid exposing them to things that are likely to stain them. This includes:

In the UK, teeth whitening kits can be bought over the counter but only if they contain less than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. This means they aren't as strong as professional whitening treatments, as a qualified dentist can legally use up to 6% hydrogen peroxide.Home kits also carry risks. Talk to your dentist first, before using a home kit. What are the risks of home kits and salon teeth whitening?

What you eat and drink and whether you smoke also contribute to the longevity of teeth whitening effects. "If you’re meticulous at avoiding anything that will stain teeth and upkeep with whitening touch-up products, results will last longer," she explains. "Some of the most teeth-staining foods and drinks are tea (which actually stains more than coffee!), tobacco and red wine, then dark foods and juices like turmeric, beets, curry and blueberries." The gel seeps through your tooth enamel and the layer of dentin below. The whitening components of the gel remove the stains by breaking down the discolouring molecules causing them. Finally, we explain why home whitening kits are such a popular option for people dissatisfied with the shade of their teeth. A whitening toothpaste will help remove any surface stains that do build up on your teeth. If this causes sensitivity, try using it just two or three times a week instead. AP24 toothpaste is one popular brand in the UK, although it does come at a price. Cheaper supermarket brands may prove just as effective for you. Fillable mouth trays: These are a little less simple as they require you to fill them with a pre-measured amount of whitening gel from a pod or syringe. When you put the mouthpiece in your mouth you should get enough gel on your teeth to whiten them. But you may also get some on your gums.Yes, the majority of teeth whitening products work to some degree. However, it's important to differentiate between surface stain removal and enamel bleaching. You should also keep in mind that just because a whitening technique works, it doesn't mean it is safe for your teeth in the long run. How long does teeth whitening last? Whitening toothpaste only removes surface stains– rather than altering the colour of the teeth themselves – so if your teeth are naturally yellowish, using whitening toothpaste won't change that. However, it can be used to prolong the effects of other whitening treatments. No bleaching trays or plastic strips are needed. Trays are difficult to hold in place, and they trigger a lot of saliva, too. Do not exceed the recommended amount of time for applying the product and do not leave any residue on your teeth for longer than suggested in the instructions. How long will it take to whiten my teeth?

Dr Hanna Kinsella, cosmetic dentist and founder of Icy Bear Dental, explains: "Hydrogen peroxide is a weak acid with strong oxidising properties, meaning it steals the electrons that hold the staining molecules together, causing them to fall apart. It will change the colour of your teeth, rather than simply removing surface stains. Carbamide peroxide is another similar ingredient." Teeth whitening carried out in beauty salons by untrained staff or staff without dental qualifications puts your oral health at risk and is also illegal. Will I pay for teeth whitening privately? Irritation of the gum or mouth may occur. We are all different. What works for one person may not work for the other person. Some people may develop sensitivity and reactions to some of the ingredients in the tooth whitening paint. It contains peroxide compounds just like bleaching products. You are advised to discontinue immediately should you notice your teeth becoming sensitive.At-home teeth whitening kits are a more accessible alternative to professional whitening treatments, which can deliver instant and more dramatic results but at a higher price. DIY teeth whiteners can include whitening strips, trays, gels, pens, toothpastes, mouthwashes and LED lights as accelerators, which can provide noticeable effects both immediately and with use over time. "They use various chemical or abrasive agents to lighten or remove stains on your teeth to make them appear whiter," explains Marina Gonchar, DMD, orthodontist and owner of Skin to Smile in Morristown, New Jersey. Smile White Pro Whitening provides custom whitening with bespoke trays and two in-office visits with a partnering cosmetic dentist. The fact that your treatment is supervised by a licensed dentistmeans that this system allows you to get safe professional whitening at home. Some beauty salons offer teeth whitening, but this is illegal if there's no dental professional present, and it may put your oral health at risk.