What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth can become stained by the foods we eat and drinks such as tea, coffee or red wine. Smoking and certain medications can also discolour teeth, and teeth can naturally change colour as we age.
Here at the Courtyard Dental Practice we use custom made trays to apply the teeth whitening solution directly to your teeth for up to six hours in a 24 hour period. We use professional dental whitening to remove stains for a brighter, whiter smile.
The Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Gently whitens teeth
Professional products and techniques
Does not damage teeth or weaken the enamel
Whiten teeth at home after your first appointment
The Teeth Whitening Process
1
Following an examination we will let you know if there are any contraindications, such as fillings at the front of your mouth or dental crowns, for whitening of your teeth.
2
We scan upper and lower teeth to create the custom made teeth whitening trays.
3
The trays will be fitted with the professional whitening solution two weeks later.
4
Clear written and verbal instructions will be given at the fit of the trays and we will ask you to show us that you can apply the gel.
5
A review will be booked for two weeks and the shade of your teeth taken.
6
Regular check ups and cleaning is recommended.
The Type of Teeth Whitening Available
Our professional teeth whitening service means we prescribe carbamide peroxide gel - either 16% or 10% strength. This gel is prescription only medicine and cannot be purchased over the counter. We have to apply the first dose of teeth whitening at our dental practice - so expect to be wearing the trays for a number of hours on the first day.
Our Facial Aesthetics Practitioner
All facial aesthetics treatments are carried out by Dr Ailsa David, a medically accredited practitioner, ensuring safe, professional and high quality care tailored to you. Ailsa trained with Professor Brian Franks on his Medical Aesthetic Non-Surgical Interventions Training course in 2023. She holds certification for Botulinum Toxin Part 1 (for the upper face) and Dermal Fillers Parts I and II (for lower face and lip augmentation)
"I love carrying out facial aesthetics because small, carefully placed treatments can make a big difference to how someone feels about themselves. I really enjoy helping people feel more confident, refreshed, and like the best version of themselves.”
Frequently Asked Questions
After your custom made teeth whitening trays are made we will advise you to wear the trays for up to 6 hours in a 24 hour period. We will then book you in for a follow up appointment in two weeks.
Usually, you’ll need to continue the whitening process for a longer period of time. Some teeth require more than two months of whitening.
How long does teeth whitening take with a dentist?
Some people do report sensitivity during whitening. Sometimes we recommend reducing the daily whitening time and sometimes we recommend some adjuncts to help with this. We can also prescribe a lower dose gel, which will take a little longer to whiten the teeth but should reduce any sensitivity experienced.
Does whitening cause tooth sensitivity?
As we age the dentine (inner part of the tooth) colours and yellows, yet the enamel is translucent and colourless. During teeth whitening, the whitening gel releases oxygen into the structure of teeth. The oxygen bubbles break down the longer chains within the dentine (tooth’s hard tissue) which shine yellow. This then lightens the teeth.
The oxygen build up takes a few days and can create a pressure - leading to the occasional sensitivity. The whitening process takes time to break down all the chains and if the dentine is very dark or an orange colour it can take a bit longer. This process takes a little patience, but you can stop once you’re happy with the results.
How does teeth whitening work?
With time most internal stains can be lightened.
Can teeth whitening remove all types of stains?
The beauty of tray whitening is you can stop the process when you are happy with the colour of your teeth.
No, you can stop the whitening process once you are happy with the results. We will also review your teeth regularly and should we think the teeth are white enough we will let you know.
Will my teeth be too white?
Yes you usually can whiten your teeth if you have a filling in your front tooth. But, you may need to have the filling replaced or resurfaced once the desired whiteness is achieved.
I have fillings in my front teeth - can I whiten?
Your dentist will advise you if teeth whitening is right for you. Contact our team today to book your consultation.
I have tooth crowns - can I whiten my teeth?
Yes, teeth whitening is a safe treatment for pregnant and breastfeeding women, if you can find the time during this period.
Is teeth whitening safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
You can prevent surface staining after professional teeth whitening by not eating dark foods or smoking. General ageing staining cannot be avoided, unfortunately.
How do I prevent future tooth staining after professional whitening?
Care for the whole family
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
"Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable."
"'I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable. My visit to your practice was so reassuring I feel much more positive, "
"Lovely welcoming helpful staff and festive practice (its december) Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand.!"
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
'Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable.'
"I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
'I love coming to the dentist because the staff are so friendly, smiley & kind"
"Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand."
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable."
