Yes, the tooth whitening process at Fold Dentistry is both safe and effective. We utilise the most advanced and clinically proven techniques that ensure the safety and comfort of our patients. All procedures are carried out by highly skilled dental professionals who adhere strictly to all safety guidelines and regulations.

Our team prioritises patient health and comfort above all else. Before the whitening process, we perform a comprehensive oral examination to assess the overall health of your teeth and gums. This allows us to determine if you are a suitable candidate for teeth whitening and to tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

The whitening agents we use are specially designed to minimise sensitivity and discomfort. These agents have been extensively tested and have a long history of proven safety and effectiveness. While over-the-counter whitening products can sometimes lead to gum irritation or enamel damage, professional whitening treatments at Fold Dentistry are closely monitored and adjusted to ensure optimal safety.

However, it’s important to note that while tooth whitening is generally safe, it’s not suitable for everyone. Certain conditions, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or hypersensitivity, may mean that other dental treatments should be prioritised. As part of our commitment to your oral health, we’ll ensure you’re fully informed about the best options for your individual circumstances.

In conclusion, the tooth whitening treatment at Fold Dentistry is a safe and efficient way to enhance the appearance of your smile, carried out by professionals in a controlled, comfortable environment.

While over-the-counter tooth whitening products are often seen as a convenient and inexpensive alternative, there are several important factors to consider when comparing them to professional whitening services like those provided by Fold Dentistry.

Firstly, over-the-counter products do not offer the same level of whitening as a professional service. They typically use lower concentrations of active ingredients, which often results in a less noticeable change in tooth colour and may require longer treatment periods.

Secondly, without the supervision of a dental professional, there’s a risk of improper use, which can lead to issues such as gum irritation, uneven whitening, and in some cases, damage to the tooth enamel. A professional whitening service, on the other hand, is carried out by qualified dental practitioners who ensure that the procedure is conducted correctly and safely, providing a more controlled and precise application that reduces the risk of side effects.

Another key aspect is the personalised care and advice you receive from a professional service. At Fold Dentistry, we perform an initial assessment of your dental health before proceeding with any whitening treatment. This allows us to identify any underlying dental issues that might need addressing first, such as cavities or gum disease, and customise the treatment to your specific needs.

Finally, the results from professional whitening treatments are typically more long-lasting compared to over-the-counter products. Professional treatments use higher quality, more potent whitening agents, which can provide results that remain visible for a year or more, depending on individual lifestyle habits.

In conclusion, while over-the-counter products might seem appealing due to their lower cost and convenience, professional whitening treatments offer a safer, more effective, and long-lasting solution to enhancing the brightness of your smile.

While teeth whitening is generally safe and effective, some people may experience certain side effects during or after the procedure. The most common are temporary sensitivity of the teeth and mild gum irritation. These usually subside a few days after the treatment.

Sensitivity often occurs due to the peroxide in the whitening agent penetrating the enamel and reaching the dentin layer of your teeth, affecting the nerves. If you’re already prone to sensitive teeth, discuss this with your dental professional at Fold Dentistry before the treatment. They can tailor your whitening procedure to minimise discomfort, such as using a lower concentration of whitening agent or recommending a special toothpaste to help alleviate sensitivity.

Gum irritation, on the other hand, usually arises from an ill-fitting mouth tray used during the whitening procedure, causing some of the whitening gel to leak onto the gums. At Fold Dentistry, we customise the whitening trays to fit your teeth perfectly, reducing the chance of gum irritation.

It’s important to remember that these side effects are typically temporary and should subside within a few days. If they persist, it’s essential to consult your dental professional. Always ensure that teeth whitening is performed by a qualified dental professional like the team at Fold Dentistry to ensure the process is safe and tailored to your needs.

The duration of teeth whitening treatment can vary depending on the method used and the individual’s specific dental needs and goals. At Fold Dentistry, our in-practice whitening treatment typically takes around 60 to 90 minutes in a single session. During this time, a professional-grade bleaching agent is applied to your teeth, often activated with a special light to enhance its effect.

If you opt for our at-home teeth whitening kit, the duration can vary based on your desired results and how consistently you use the provided custom-made whitening trays. Typically, our patients are advised to wear these trays with the whitening gel for a few hours each day or overnight for approximately two weeks. Remember, the key to successful teeth whitening is patience. The process is gradual, but the results can be dramatically effective, especially when guided by a professional dental team like ours at Fold Dentistry.