At Aquae Sulis Dental we use the Enlighten™ Smile-X Evolution Ice and Ramp systems that have enabled our patients to achieve fantastic results. This technique uses a strong oxidizing agent to lighten the teeth and is a safe, highly effective way to brighten the smile.

The system uses customised trays that are worn at home for a couple of weeks. An in-surgery appointment then completes the process to give beautiful, long-lasting results. Tooth whitening works best on yellowing teeth but has also produced great results on mottled teeth, and those with a grey/brown appearance caused by antibiotics.

The great thing about dental whitening is that it is a non-invasive technique that does not in any way weaken or damage the teeth. As such it is one of the most simple yet effective treatments available to us in aesthetic dentistry today. Where additional treatments such as veneering are required, the use of whitening first results in much less tooth structure being removed to make room for the porcelain veneers.

10 things you wanted to know about tooth whitening

1. Teeth naturally darken with age. This is made worse by lifestyle such as smoking and drinking coffee, tea and red wine.
2. Whiter teeth make you look on average 13 years younger - according to a recent survey by Oral-B.
3. Most whitened teeth stay lighter up to 3 years, dependent on lifestyle. Maintenance whitening at home will prolong results.
4. Tooth whitening does not damage the teeth.
5. Tooth whitening can cause some teeth to become sensitive. This is generally mild in most people and disappears after the treatment stops.
6. Lasers are just a gimmick. Scientific research has found that these energy sources do very little to accelerate the whitening procedure.
7. At home or in the surgery? The best results use a combination of the two techniques.
8. Whitening gels only lighten the colour of teeth and will not affect fillings crowns and veneers, which may need to be replaced after the teeth are whitened.
9. As a general rule yellowish teeth whiten the best
10. Whitening toothpastes do not whiten teeth.

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