With advances in dental technology, nowadays it is possible to change the appearance of your teeth in a very short space of time. Whether carried out at home, where the timescale can be between 2 and 4 weeks, or at the dentist where the turnaround is 1 hour - the result will be bright white teeth. Not only are the timescales impressive, but teeth whitening doesn’t cost a lot of money either. Another plus point is that is won’t cause serious pain or discomfort, as many people fear this with a trip to the dentist. Fair to say it’s easy to carry out, very effective and the results are instantly noticed.

Anyone who fears the dentist because they think it will be a painful experience needn’t worry as it’s very much a pain free experience. The worst symptom you will face is sensitive teeth during and after the procedure - this is very common, the general advice is to avoid hot and cold food/beverages following the treatment and to use a toothpaste that is suited to such a predicament. The over side effect will be muscle stiffness in the face as a result of constantly smiling to show off your new smile.

The cost of the tooth whitening procedure will vary and depend upon whether you opt to do it yourself or take the professional approach. If you opt to do it at home, a kit can be purchased in chemists and online. You will look to pay from 20 for white strips up to 60 for light activated treatment. A visit to the dentist will on average cost between 250 and 400 though many will offer special offers on this.

The degree of whitening is measured in shades and the effectiveness of each treatment varies depending on many factors. The strength of the peroxide chemical will determine how white your teeth become in chemical treatments. In light activated treatments the degree of radiation will determine the number of shades whiter your teeth will be after the treatment.

The teeth become whiter because they become more permeable to oxygen. The more oxygen that reaches the surface, the whiter the teeth. Coffee stains, wine stains, smoking stains, and much more can be removed easily with a whitening procedure. Not only will your teeth look years younger and shades brighter, but your confidence will soar every time you gaze at your pearly whites. This is a cost effective way to boost your confidence and change your look.

Cahill Dental Care are a private cosmetic dentistry practice based in Bolton, Greater Manchester.