Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening procedures involve the use of whitening agents to lighten any tooth discolouration.
Causes of tooth discolouration
Due to a variety of reasons, teeth can become discoloured and appear stained or yellow. Such factors may include:
› lifestyle choices, such as smoking
› age and deterioration of old fillings
› poor oral hygiene and dental problems, such as decay
› some medications and excessive fluoride, especially during childhood
Before proceeding with any tooth whitening procedure, it is important to consult your dentist. The cause of your tooth discolouration should be identified as additional treatments may also be required. Your dentist can advise you on which procedure is best for you.
Different methods of tooth whitening
Depending on the state of your teeth and the cause of any discolouration, your dentist will advise whether a tooth whitening procedure is appropriate for you and which treatment is likely to be most effective. Some tooth whitening procedures include:
› In-surgery light-activated treatment
› Whitening trays and take-home whitening kits
› internal bleaching of a root-filled tooth
For more information on which tooth whitening procedures are available at your local Primary Dental, please contact your local centre directly.
