Dentistry FAQs

• Value for money - the equivalent system at other centres is in excess of one thousand five hundred pounds.
• Pain free- our system ensure that the experience is as comfortable as possible.
• Long-term stable results- our patients often tell us how happy they are, and the difference their new smile has made to them.

Both porcelain crowns and veneers require some degree of drilling of the teeth, and the cost to treat each tooth can range from £400 - £1,000 + per tooth. Also, there is generally a 1-3 week waiting period while the permanent crown/veneer is made at a lab. Our system does not require drilling on the teeth, or waiting for any lab work.

The Gel/tray systems generally require at least 1 hour of wearing the tray per day, but generally 3 or more hours per day for 2-8 weeks, and often produce less than 5 shades improvement. The most important reason for poor results is that many people find the time requirements of this method inconvenient with their busy life styles, they do not want the taste/hassle associated with the use of these gels and often do not want to wait 2-3 weeks for the results. Many user of the tray system have also stated that there is often significant pain/sensitivity during the whitening process.

Laser whitening can be a long (up to 3 hours) and painful process, which may achieve good results, but at a price, generally the cost is nearer to £1000. The process uses a powerful laser system as well as a 35-50% hydrogen peroxide gel. The teeth are often left sensitive, and some patients say they are unhappy with the outcomes.

By comparison our whitening process normally takes just over and hour, is simple, safe and effective and in most cases produces very little sensitivity.

On most patients we are able to whiten the upper 8-10 teeth and the lower 8-10 teeth. These are the teeth most of us show when we smile. Because our process uses light in conjunction with the whitening gel, we are generally unable to whiten teeth any further back in the mouth.

Since for most of the back teeth are not easily seen or noticed, this is usually not a problem. Our process is mostly pain-free and has a good record by comparison to the laser process and tray systems.

Most customers can expect to feel no discomfort with their teeth that is any different from a good cleaning. Some customers may feel a dull ache or a pinging sensation during or following the procedure.

Taking some sort of analgesic like aspirin or Ibuprofen almost always resolves the issue and most discomfort goes away after 12-24 hours. Some patients can get longer-term sensitivity to hot or cold as a result of teeth whitening. It is best to avoid very hot or cold drinks for the first 24 hours after treatment.

During consultation the dentist will go over what you can personally expect for your individual situation. The dentist will use a colour chart that will allow you to see the 'before' and projected 'after' colour of your teeth for comparison.

No. Our procedure is safe for patients with a pacemaker.

Yes, but due to the fact that the set-up time required for treating all of you teeth is the same as it is to only treat your upper (or lower) teeth, the fee is still the same.

For the most effective whitening, the client should have seen their dentist and had a teeth cleaning session within the last year. The procedure is a dental procedure and must be done within the context of regular dental care. During the dental screening process the dentist looks for problems, which might eliminate a client as a candidate for teeth whitening. Patient's who have not had a recent cleaning session risk a poor result and dissatisfaction.

Virtually everyone wanting to lighten his or her teeth can benefit from using our unique system, including people with severe food, coffee, tobacco or tetracycline stains. The dental examination by the dentist will determine if you are a good candidate for whitening at the time of your consultation. If the dentist uncovers a condition that would delay whitening, Customers with a history of TMJ problems, extreme thermal sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks and those with numerous fracture lines in their teeth may not be good candidates.

In clinical studies, whitening has been able to achieve over 9+ shades whiter on average. Your results of course will vary as your starting point maybe different and everyone's teeth respond a little differently, but in virtually all cases, the results are dramatic. Ultimately, the goal will be to achieve your optimum, natural whiteness.

The long-term results depend primarily on the individual. Certain habits, such as the use of tobacco products, drinking a lot of coffee, tea or red wine, and not having regular dental check-ups, can work against the results. Regular professional care and use of recommended tooth care products can help maintain your natural whiteness for up to 3 years or more.

The dentist will first examine your teeth and gums for good oral health. Next as you relax in the chair, our proprietary whitening gel is applied to your teeth and blue wavelength a light will be positioned over your teeth to activate the gel. As you watch TV, listen to music or nap, your teeth will lighten and your natural whiteness will be restored in about an hour through a completely safe process of oxidation.

Yes. The procedure will not soften enamel or existing fillings.

The majority of our clients experience no pain or sensitivity after the Teeth Whitening treatment.

The cost of Professional Teeth Whitening treatment varies depending on the starting point discoloration of the teeth, but is very cost effective for the results achieved. For a guide an average treatment at the very most should cost £700.

No. As with most cosmetic dental procedures, insurance will not cover the treatment cost.

Currently, the minimum age is 14 years old, with clinical proof of safety and effectiveness. Young adults 14+ are good candidates for the procedure, particularly if they have heavy staining after orthodontic treatment is complete and their braces are removed. There is no maximum age, only the condition of the teeth is a governing factor.

The BriteSmile Professional Teeth Whitening treatment has been successful at removing stains from caps, veneers or bonded teeth. However, a whitening treatment in general cannot change the original colour of the caps, veneers or bonds. We recommend that you discuss your situation with your dentist to determine what you can expect.

We recommend that you wait until after the birth.

After your initial treatment we provide Whitening trays that you can use at home to keep that white smile.

Simple – just call now to arrange your Whitening consultation and appraisal. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, we've all heard of plaque, but did you know it's a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth? When the film hardens on the teeth it's called plaque. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums.

In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.

The plaque begins to spread down the roots of the teeth and the gums get infected which causes damage to the bone and fibres (periodontal ligament) which support the teeth. If unchecked, the disease can advance, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, allowing more food and plaque to be trapped under them, causing more damage.

In the very advanced stages of the disease the teeth become loose and shift around because of the widespread damage to the bone and ligaments holding the teeth in. Because of this your bite may shift and you may have difficulty chewing, your teeth may look "long" and if you wear a partial denture it may no longer fit. Don't Panic - be aware of the warning signs and take precautions.

If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately:

• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures