Over the past few years at The Wellesley, we’ve seen a growing number of people looking to enhance their smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments such as Invisalign and professional teeth whitening. While improving the appearance of your teeth can boost confidence, our primary concern is always the health and safety of our patients. Teeth whitening, when not properly supervised, can come with risks, which is why we advocate a gradual approach for the best and safest results.
Why we use the Enlighten Home Whitening System
For several years, we’ve trusted the Enlighten Home Whitening System to deliver the best of both worlds – a professionally supervised whitening process that you can complete at home at your own pace. We now use the latest EVO4 formula, Enlighten’s most advanced and effective treatment to date. This system utilises precision-crafted custom trays and provides long-lasting results in just three weeks, allowing you to brighten your smile safely without disrupting your daily routine.
Why do people choose teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a great way to boost your confidence, particularly ahead of special occasions such as weddings, job interviews, or important social events. But it’s not just about achieving a dazzling smile – as we age, our teeth naturally darken due to diet, lifestyle habits, and certain medications. Whitening treatments help counteract this, restoring a fresher, more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Common whitening mistakes to avoid
While professional teeth whitening can be highly effective, there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. One of the biggest mistakes is using over-the-counter products without professional guidance. These often contain weaker bleaching agents and may not achieve the desired results. Additionally, failing to maintain good oral hygiene before and after treatment can diminish its effectiveness.
If you opt for professional whitening, following the instructions provided by your dentist is key. Misuse of whitening products can lead to uneven results or even damage to your teeth and gums. Long-term habits such as excessive coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco consumption can also cause staining, so being mindful of your diet can help prolong your results. Lastly, patience is crucial – the best results come gradually, not from a single treatment.
Managing sensitivity during whitening
Tooth sensitivity is a common concern during whitening, as bleaching agents can temporarily expose nerve endings. At The Wellesley, we assess your sensitivity levels before beginning treatment and, if necessary, incorporate desensitising gel into the process. Since Enlighten’s system is designed to work gradually, it minimises exposure to strong whitening agents at any one time, helping to keep sensitivity to a minimum.
The EVO4 Enlighten Whitening process
We use Enlighten because it combines both in-practice and at-home treatments for optimal results.
Step 1: Initial consultation
The process begins with a consultation, where we assess your teeth, take photographs, and scan your mouth to create custom-fit whitening trays. Before starting the whitening process, we provide a special toothpaste and tooth serum to prepare your enamel.
Step 2: In-office whitening
Two weeks later, you’ll return for an in-office appointment where we apply a desensitising treatment and carry out an initial whitening session with a high-strength gel that isn’t available for home use.
Step 3: At-home whitening
You’ll then take home your custom trays and professional whitening gel, which you’ll use daily for the next two to three weeks. Once your at-home treatment is complete, you’ll come back for a final check-up and an additional in-office whitening session to perfect your results.
Step 4: Ongoing care
We’ll also provide guidance on maintaining your new smile and recommend occasional top-up treatments as needed.
Whitening aftercare
To keep your teeth looking bright after treatment, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and using a whitening toothpaste can all help preserve your results. Reducing consumption of staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine will also make a difference. However, if you do indulge, rinsing your mouth with water afterwards can minimise staining.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings will help maintain both the health and appearance of your teeth. If any areas of discolouration remain due to fillings or dental work, options such as composite bonding can help create a uniform look.
Is teeth whitening right for you?
If you’re considering whitening but aren’t sure if it’s the right choice, we’re happy to talk it through. We can tailor the strength of the treatment to achieve a natural shade rather than the extreme ‘Turkey Teeth’ look. Because Enlighten’s process is gradual, you have complete control over the final shade, stopping treatment once you’re happy with the results.
Our combination of professional supervision and gradual at-home treatment ensures a safe and comfortable experience. With the added benefit of desensitisation treatments, you can achieve your dream smile without discomfort. Plus, Enlighten’s whitening system is 100% cruelty-free and suitable for vegans.
Ready to achieve a brighter, more confident smile?
Book a consultation with us today and take the first step towards whiter, healthier-looking teeth.
