Teeth Whitening FAQ’s

This June and July, Dental Care Ireland are offering 20% off teeth whitening across all practices so you can brighten up your summer smile!

Dr. Jennifer Collins is the Clinical Director of the Dental Care Ireland group. Below, she has answered your frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at Dental Care Ireland.

Q: Am I a suitable candidate for teeth whitening?

A: A full check-up with your dentist is recommended prior to whitening treatment to determine your suitability. Professional teeth whitening is ideal for patients who have healthy teeth and gums with no anterior (front) tooth restorations such as fillings, crowns or veneers. You may not be a suitable candidate if you have gum disease, tooth decay or hypersensitivity.

Q: What does the treatment involve?

A: Once you are a suitable candidate, your dentist will work with you to identify the shade of white you wish to achieve. Impressions will then be taken of your teeth to develop custom whitening trays which you can use yourself at home. Your bespoke whitening kit will include the trays and a special whitening gel.

Q: How long does the treatment take?

A: Teeth whitening trays and gel are typically used at home for either 1-2 hours an evening or overnight for approximately 7 to 14 days. This depends on the shade you wish to achieve and the strength of whitening gels used. Your dentist will discuss these options with you to determine the most suitable whitening treatment.

Q: How white will my teeth go?

A: The shade of white you are able to achieve with whitening depends on a few factors. This includes the shade of your teeth prior to treatment, your diet and whether or not you smoke. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the likely outcome before you begin your whitening treatment.

Q: Will I feel pain or sensitivity?

A: You may experience some sensitivity during the whitening process. This is completely normal and should disappear when you finish your whitening treatment. If you usually have sensitive teeth, it may be helpful to use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth before and during whitening.

Q: Is whitening harmful to my teeth and gums?

A: No, teeth whitening is not harmful to your teeth and gums. A common misconception is that whitening can weaken your teeth. This may be due to the sensitivity that some patients experience during treatment. However, this is completely normal and should disappear when you finish your whitening treatment.

Q: Does the treatment whiten crowns, veneers or fillings?

A: No. Whitening only works on natural teeth. Crowns, veneers or tooth-coloured fillings will not whiten. If you have any crowns, veneers or fillings in your front teeth, you may need to have these replaced after your whitening treatment to match them to your new, whiter shade.

Q: Are the results permanent?

A: The effects of whitening will vary from person to person. Results may be impacted by smoking or consuming certain foods and drinks such as tea, coffee and red wine. As your whitening trays are reusable, you can top-up your treatment if the colour of your teeth darkens overtime.

Q: How can I maintain my brighter smile?

A: After the initial whitening process, you will have plenty of whitening gel remaining which you can use to top-up your tooth shade annually or as needed. Try to maintain a good oral health routine at home, avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and schedule regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

To avail of our 20% off teeth whitening offer, contact your local Dental Care Ireland practice here.