Teeth Whitening

Lightening of the tooth colour by the application of external agents. Tooth colour is two shades brighter in the first sitting itself.

What if my teeth are deeply discolored?

Some types of discoloration cannot be treated with whitening – for instance, discoloration that occurs when the interior portion of a tooth is badly damaged or decayed or following a root canal. In those cases, tooth-colored porcelain veneers or crowns can provide a great solution.

What is polo office whitening?

Polo office (advanced tooth whitening system) is a state-of-the-art teeth whitening system that uses a combination of whitening gels and light activation to help gels penetrate to deeper layers of the tooth surface for significant results in just one clinic visit. Because it reaches the deeper layers of the tooth surface, results also last longer than many other types of teeth bleaching treatments.

How is polo office whitening performed?

Polo office whitening treatment begins with an evaluation of the teeth to determine if there are any tiny cracks or other types of damage that need to be addressed first to reduce the chance of increased tooth sensitivity. During the treatment, a special guard is used to hold the lips away from the tooth surfaces so the activating light can reach all the surfaces and to prevent the gel from being rubbed away. The gel is applied to the entire visible surfaces of the teeth and the light is directed at the tooth surfaces, usually for four, 15-minute intervals, allowing reapplication of the gel as needed.

How often will I need to have whitening treatments to keep my teeth looking their best?

That depends on how well the teeth are cared for after whitening is complete. With proper brushing and flossing, results can last a year or more.

What can I do to prevent teeth staining and discoloration?

Most staining and discoloration of teeth is related to the foods and beverages that are consumed. Foods and drinks with dark colors, including coffee, red wine, tea, colas, berries and some spices all contain pigments that can stain teeth. Poor oral hygiene habits and infrequent professional cleanings can also contribute to a dull, dingy smile. To prevent staining, brush and floss soon after meals and use a straw when consuming beverages known to stain. Also be sure to have teeth professionally cleaned every six months to remove stains and to learn how to improve brushing and flossing techniques.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening treatments are designed to improve the colour of your natural teeth without having to resort to invasive dentistry such as fillings, veneers or crowns. The process is entirely safe and the colour change long lasting. If your teeth are undamaged and healthy the treatment can simply make them look significantly brighter. If however, your teeth are discoloured, heavily filled, crowned or veneered the treatment can be used alongside replacement dentistry to achieve the best possible improvement in your smile.

Dental materials such as fillings crowns and veneers are not affected by the whitening and their colour will not be changed. As the colour of your teeth lightens any dark or unsightly pieces of dentistry will become more obvious and you may want to discuss with your dentist before treatment.