Custom-made trays and professional gel to whiten gradually at home, from Highfield Dental Clinic, Edgbaston.
Custom trays fit only your teeth, keeping the gel where it belongs and off your gums. Your treatment is prescribed and supervised throughout.
Home whitening uses custom-made trays and a professional whitening gel supplied by your dentist. You wear the trays for a set period each day or overnight, as instructed, over a course of days or weeks.
Because the gel is at a lower concentration than in-surgery products, the change happens gradually. Many patients prefer this, as it tends to cause less sensitivity and allows you to stop once you reach a shade you are happy with. As with all whitening in the UK, it must be prescribed by a dentist and is only permitted for patients aged 18 and over.
Prefer to whiten gradually at home in Birmingham? Our experienced team will assess your teeth and make trays designed for you.
Treatment begins with an assessment, then trays are made for you. The process usually involves:
Your dentist will explain how long to wear the trays, how much gel to use and what to do if you experience sensitivity.
Use only the amount of gel demonstrated, as too much simply spills onto the gums and can cause irritation. Wipe away any excess after seating the trays, and clean the trays with cool water after each use.
Cutting down on tea, coffee, red wine and smoking during the course helps, as teeth are more prone to picking up stain while whitening. Results vary between individuals, and existing crowns, veneers and fillings will not lighten. Keep your trays safely, as top-up gel can be supplied later without remaking them.
Most courses run over one to three weeks depending on your starting shade and the gel prescribed. Your dentist will give you a timescale at your appointment.
Both can produce good results. Home whitening works more gradually, which many patients find causes less sensitivity, while in-surgery whitening gives a faster initial change.
We strongly advise against it. Products sold direct to the public are limited by law to very low concentrations, and illegal high-strength kits can burn gums and damage teeth.
Take a break for a day or two, use a sensitivity toothpaste, and contact us for advice. Sensitivity during whitening is common and usually temporary.
You can, but restorations will not change colour. If they are visible when you smile, they may need replacing afterwards to match, and we will discuss this first.
Occasional top-ups using your existing trays, together with good oral hygiene and hygiene appointments, keep the result looking fresh.
