Will it hurt?

• What are the main benefits of having my teeth whitened at Oakland Dental Care ?
   
  • Value for money - the equivalent system at other centres is in excess of one thousand five hundred pounds.
  • Pain free- our system ensure that the experience is as comfortable as possible.
  • Long-term stable results- our patients often tell us how happy they are, and the difference their new smile has made to them.
     
• What are the advantages of the Oakland Dental Care System over the other methods available today?
  Both porcelain crowns and veneers require some degree of drilling of the teeth, and the cost to treat each tooth can range from £400 - £1,000 + per tooth. Also, there is generally a 1-3 week waiting period while the permanent crown/veneer is made at a lab. Our system does not require drilling on the teeth, or waiting for any lab work.
   
  The Gel/tray systems generally require at least 1 hour of wearing the tray per day, but generally 3 or more hours per day for 2-8 weeks, and often produce less than 5 shades improvement. The most important reason for poor results is that many people find the time requirements of this method inconvenient with their busy life styles, they do not want the taste/hassle associated with the use of these gels and often do not want to wait 2-3 weeks for the results. Many user of the tray system have also stated that there is often significant pain/sensitivity during the whitening process.
   
  Laser whitening can be a long (up to 3 hours) and painful process, which may achieve good results, but at a price, generally the cost is nearer to £1000. The process uses a powerful laser system as well as a 35-50% hydrogen peroxide gel. The teeth are often left sensitive, and some patients say they are unhappy with the outcomes.
   
  By comparison our whitening process normally takes just over and hour, is simple, safe and effective and in most cases produces very little sensitivity.
   
• Does the Oakland Dental Care System whiten all of the teeth?
  On most patients we are able to whiten the upper 8-10 teeth and the lower 8-10 teeth. These are the teeth most of us show when we smile. Because our process uses light in conjunction with the whitening gel, we are generally unable to whiten teeth any further back in the mouth.
   
  Since for most of the back teeth are not easily seen or noticed, this is usually not a problem. Our process is mostly pain-free and has a good record by comparison to the laser process and tray systems.
   
  Most customers can expect to feel no discomfort with their teeth that is any different from a good cleaning. Some customers may feel a dull ache or a pinging sensation during or following the procedure.
   
  Taking some sort of analgesic like aspirin or Ibuprofen almost always resolves the issue and most discomfort goes away after 12-24 hours. Some patients can get longer-term sensitivity to hot or cold as a result of teeth whitening. It is best to avoid very hot or cold drinks for the first 24 hours after treatment.
   
• How will I know how I will look?
  During consultation the dentist will go over what you can personally expect for your individual situation. The dentist will use a colour chart that will allow you to see the 'before' and projected 'after' colour of your teeth for comparison.
   
• I have a heart pacemaker can there be problems?
  No. Our procedure is safe for patients with a pacemaker.
   
• Can I have my upper (or lower) teeth treated?
  Yes, but due to the fact that the set-up time required for treating all of you teeth is the same as it is to only treat your upper (or lower) teeth, the fee is still the same.
   
• What if I haven't seen my dentist recently?
  For the most effective whitening, the client should have seen their dentist and had a teeth cleaning session within the last year. The procedure is a dental procedure and must be done within the context of regular dental care. During the dental screening process the dentist looks for problems, which might eliminate a client as a candidate for teeth whitening. Patient's who have not had a recent cleaning session risk a poor result and dissatisfaction.
   
• Is this procedure for everyone?
  Virtually everyone wanting to lighten his or her teeth can benefit from using our unique system, including people with severe food, coffee, tobacco or tetracycline stains. The dental examination by the dentist will determine if you are a good candidate for whitening at the time of your consultation. If the dentist uncovers a condition that would delay whitening, Customers with a history of TMJ problems, extreme thermal sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks and those with numerous fracture lines in their teeth may not be good candidates.
   
• How much whiter my teeth will be?
  In clinical studies, whitening has been able to achieve over 9+ shades whiter on average. Your results of course will vary as your starting point maybe different and everyone's teeth respond a little differently, but in virtually all cases, the results are dramatic. Ultimately, the goal will be to achieve your optimum, natural whiteness.
   
• How long does the whitening last?
  The long-term results depend primarily on the individual. Certain habits, such as the use of tobacco products, drinking a lot of coffee, tea or red wine, and not having regular dental check-ups, can work against the results. Regular professional care and use of recommended tooth care products can help maintain your natural whiteness for up to 3 years or more.
   
• How Does 'Tooth Whitening' work?
  The dentist will first examine your teeth and gums for good oral health. Next as you relax in the chair, our proprietary whitening gel is applied to your teeth and blue wavelength a light will be positioned over your teeth to activate the gel. As you watch TV, listen to music or nap, your teeth will lighten and your natural whiteness will be restored in about an hour through a completely safe process of oxidation.

• Is Tooth Whitening safe?
  Yes. The procedure will not soften enamel or existing fillings.

• Will Tooth Whitening hurt?
  The majority of our clients experience no pain or sensitivity after the Teeth Whitening treatment.

• How much does it cost?
  The cost of Professional Teeth Whitening treatment varies depending on the starting point discoloration of the teeth, but is very cost effective for the results achieved. For a guide an average treatment costs in the region of £700 – for more details on price just call us.

• Will my dental insurance cover the cost of Tooth Whitening?
  No. As with most cosmetic dental procedures, insurance will not cover the treatment cost.

• Does my age matter?
  Currently, the minimum age is 14 years old, with clinical proof of safety and effectiveness. Young adults 14+ are good candidates for the procedure, particularly if they have heavy staining after orthodontic treatment is complete and their braces are removed. There is no maximum age, only the condition of the teeth is a governing factor.

• Will it whiten existing crowns and vaneers?
  The BriteSmile Professional Teeth Whitening treatment has been successful at removing stains from caps, veneers or bonded teeth. However, a whitening treatment in general cannot change the original colour of the caps, veneers or bonds. We recommend that you discuss your situation with your dentist to determine what you can expect.

• Is it safe if I am pregnant?
  We recommend that you wait until after the birth.

• How do I keep my teeth white?
  After your initial treatment we provide Whitening trays that you can use at home to keep that white smile.

• How do I get started?
  Simple – just call now to arrange your Whitening consultation and appraisal. We look forward to seeing you soon.
   
• Tooth Whitening Terms and Conditions.
   
  Candidates for Professional Teeth Whitening
  Eligibility for treatment is determined through information gathered during your consultation and screening. While many individuals will qualify for the treatment, not all people are deemed candidates for the procedure. If this situation occurs, the dentist will discuss his finding with you, along with possible treatments or options as appropriate.
   
  Expectation Upon Completion of the Whitening
  Significant whitening can be achieved in many cases, but there is no definite way to predict how light your teeth will get. Patients with yellow or yellow-brown teeth tend to whiten better or quicker than those with grey or grey-brown. Teeth discoloured by antibiotics, root-canal therapy or trauma do not always respond as quickly or predictably, and may require additional treatment. On the other hand, if your teeth are already a light shade of white, your additional whitening results could be minimal. The dentist may also provide an assessment as to the level of whiteness you may achieve. If you have questions regarding this issue, please discuss them with the dentist prior to signing this form and proceeding.
   
  Maintenance
  Following the completion of the whitening procedure, it is normal to experience a very slight degree of relapse within the first 24-48 hours. Also, through the normal staining process of day-to-day eating and drinking, you may experience a gradual shade relapse. This will depend on the frequency of use of tobacco products, coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining foods/drinks. This can generally be managed by maintaining a programme at home.
   
  Alternative Treatment Options
  While we feel that whitening is by the far the fastest, most effective means of whitening teeth for most people, please take note that there are other options available to you for whitening your teeth, such as a porcelain crowns, porcelain veneers, composite bonding veneers, and gel/tray systems for use at home. If you have any questions regarding the other treatment alternatives please ask the dentist.
   
  Potential Risks/Problems
  All forms of heath treatment, including teeth whitening have some risks and limitations. Complications that can occur in professional teeth whitening are generally infrequent though, and are usually minor in nature. Please read the following information. If you have any questions about these potential risk/problems, please ask us before signing the consent form.
   
  Tooth Sensitivity:
  During the whitening process some patients may experience tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity is usually mild if your teeth are not normally sensitive. If your teeth are normally sensitive please inform us before treatment. We cannot completely eliminate this risk. In some cases, we may suggest taking a mild analgesic before beginning the procedure, Please let us know if you experience any discomfort during the procedure. If your teeth become, or stay sensitive, a mild analgesic such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen will usually be effective in helping you feel comfortable. This sensitivity is generally short in duration.
   
  Gum and soft tissue irritation:
  Temporary inflammation of the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth can occur during the procedure. This is generally the result of the whitening gel coming into contact with these tissues. Protective materials are placed in the mouth to prevent this, but despite our efforts it can still rarely occur. Stretching or irritation of the lips can also occur due to the cheek retractor. If it does, it is generally short in duration (less than 2 hours) and is very mild. It can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
   
  Fillings and other dental restorations:
  White fillings, porcelain or composite restorations, crowns and veneers may not whiten at all or evenly with your natural teeth during this procedure. All dental
  restorations that show when you smile may need to be replaced at your expense. Please be sure to discuss this with the dentist prior to beginning treatment.
   
  Your treatment responsibilities.
   
  a] Follow all directions, please take time to read all written instructions and listen carefully to all verbal instructions. You are welcome and encouraged to ask questions.
   
  b] Communication, if you do not understand something communicated to you during consultation or in any printed material given to you before or after the procedure, please feel free to ask us.
   
  Confidentiality and use of information
  The information obtained in this application will be treated as private and confidential and will not be released or revealed to any person without my consent. I do, however, agree to the use of any information for research or statistical purposes, as long as it does not lead to my identification.
  
   
  AFTER WHITENING CARE PROTOCOL
   
  All teeth have a protective layer called the acquired pellicle. This layer contains the surface dental stains and is removed during regular dental cleaning or whitening. It takes 12-24 hrs for the barrier to fully develop again. During this period we suggest the following:
   
  For the first 24 hours avoid:
  Red Wine
  Dark Cola's
  Coffee or Tea
  Mustard or Ketchup
  Soya Sauce
  Smoking
  Or anything that would stain a white shirt
   
  Please feel free to contact us, should you have any questions or concerns. We will be happy to assist you.
   

• What are implants?
  Probably the best way to replace missing teeth.
   
  In simple terms these are titanium rods or screws that are fixed to the jawbone. An extension is then secured to the implant and a new crown is placed to match the colour and contours of the existing teeth.
   
  Not only do they look, feel and function like natural teeth, they restore your chewing ability, allowing you the freedom to enjoy and taste food as there is no plastic denture covering the roof of your mouth. They are strong, long lasting and offer you improved well being and comfort.

• Why choose us for your implant care?
  As a team we have advanced training in implant skills and use implant techniques recognised for their innovation and reliability.
  We invest in the latest, most advanced equipment and offer you comprehensive planning to ensure the type of implant selected is the best suited to your needs and budget.

• Are they long lasting and safe?
  Implant treatment is now a well-established technique with a success rate of more than 95% over a fifteen year period. The metal used, Titanium, is well proven for strength and safety in hip replacement.

• What are the benefits of implant retained dentures?
  If you have no teeth, even the best made full or complete dentures are only about 30% as effective as natural teeth. Once dentures are attached to implants they become very secure. This means that you, the patient, can eat almost all foods without embarrassment and nobody will know that you have false teeth. 

• Is treatment expensive?
  Whenever you are having a tooth replaced you should at least consider the implant option and compare the benefits against the more traditional approaches. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. An implant is often the ideal way of dealing with gaps, although there are cheaper alternatives that may satisfy your needs. Implant treatment is cost-effective in the long run. We always provide an estimate after our assessment, and offer finance options to suit you.

• What is a Gum Disease?
  Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it.
   
  Gum disease is caused by plaque, we've all heard of plaque, but did you know it's a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth? When the film hardens on the teeth it's called plaque. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums.
   
  In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
   
  The plaque begins to spread down the roots of the teeth and the gums get infected which causes damage to the bone and fibres (periodontal ligament) which support the teeth. If unchecked, the disease can advance, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, allowing more food and plaque to be trapped under them, causing more damage.
   
  In the very advanced stages of the disease the teeth become loose and shift around because of the widespread damage to the bone and ligaments holding the teeth in. Because of this your bite may shift and you may have difficulty chewing, your teeth may look "long" and if you wear a partial denture it may no longer fit. Don't Panic - be aware of the warning signs and take precautions.

• What are the signs of gum disease?
  If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately:

• gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• red, swollen or tender gums
• gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• bad breath that doesn't go away
• pus between your teeth and gums
• loose teeth
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• a change in the fit of partial dentures

• How can I prevent gum disease?
   
  The good news is that you can help prevent gum disease by taking good care of your teeth every day and having regular dental checkups. Here's how to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
   
  Brush your teeth well twice a day.
  This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay.
   
  Clean between your teeth every day.
  Cleaning between your teeth with floss or interdental cleaners removes bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach. Early gum disease can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist how to use them properly, to avoid injuring your gums.
   
  Eat a balanced diet.
  Choose a variety of foods from the basic food groups, such as breads, cereals and other grain products; fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; and dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt. Limit between-meal snacks, particularly sweet ones! .
   
  Visit your dentist regularly.
  It is important to have regular dental checkups, and professional cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal diseases.
   
• How to have a 'Movie Star' smile
   
  You don't have to be born with a beautiful smile to have one.
   
  Many people have expressed an interest in new techniques to help improve their smile, to create a brighter, fresher and whiter smile. Here are a few tips on how to have a smile you can be proud of; a smile you deserve.
   
  Tooth Whitening - by using modern light and laser activated gels we can whiten teeth by at least six shades.
   
  Veneers - can be used to disguise stained, misshapen and unsightly teeth.
   
  Metal Free Porcelain Crowns - we now have new technology crowns that avoid unsightly stains and metal margins.
   
  Tooth coloured, metal-free fillings - old, leaking or decayed fillings can be replaced with new, tooth coloured, natural looking fillings.
   
  Bridges - missing teeth can be replaced without the need for dentures.
   
  Cosmetic and natural looking and feeling dentures.
   
  Periodontal treatment - we can improve the contour and shape of your gums, and also improve the overall health of gums.
   
  Maintenance - is very important to maintain the longevity of the 'smile lift'. This involves regular cleans every six months, brushing teeth twice daily, flossing between the teeth and other specially catered tips to maintain the new white and clean smile.