Teeth whitening.......

[echokilo]

Can anyone give any advice and idea of cost regarding teeth whitening? I would really love to get mine done but know nothing of the methods involved or the cost ..... I have a dentists appt in a couple fo weeks and will talk to him but wanted some knowledge first .... can anyone share any info please?

[Velvetee]

I had Zoom Whitening about three years ago and it cost about �300, but prices are coming down a little.

They sit you in a chair with your mouth clamped open with a plastic gum shield for protection of soft tissue, then a bleaching solution is painted onto the teeth. You then have to sit for an hour with an Ultraviolet light shone on your teeth.

They then remove the bleaching solution and teeth will be visibly whiter. The main side effect is that your teeth will be hyper sensitive for up to 48 hours after treatment and you may need to take painkillers, which I did. I also had a little burning of the gums and tongue.

Although it's effective, it shouldn't be done often as it can damage tooth enamel, making teeth porous.

[echokilo]

Thanks Velvetee .... I will ask dentist about it... sounds good .... you say not to get it done too often ... how long does it last?

[Velvetee]

It will last as long as you maintain it, meaning avoiding foods and drinks that stain, like red wine, coffee and tea.

I could do with having it done again after 3 years, but the prospect of the after pain does not appeal, so unless they come up with a new, painless way, then I'll just carry on brushing with electric toothbrush and whitening paste.