How does Teeth Whitening Work?
Our at-home teeth whitening system is made up of 2 components, custom made whitening trays and whitening gels.
The trays are designed to hold the gels against the fronts of your teeth which you want to whiten.
The main component in whitening gel is hydrogen peroxide, which gets into the teeth and breaks down large pigments into smaller ones, leading to a brighter looking smile.
How long does it take?
This depends on many factors such as what kinds of foods you eat, lifestyle habits and your oral hygiene.
Things which lead to more staining of the teeth over time are typically the same as the ones which will discolour a white t-shirt. Some examples of this are coffee, tea, red wine, cola and foods containing artificial colouring. Smoking can also lead to the teeth becoming stained.
Does it hurt?
On average, 70% of patients experience sensitivity, especially during the beginning of the whitening process. The amount can vary on factors such as how worn down the teeth may be before you start, as well as your age.
To minimise this, we suggest using a toothpaste which can relieve sensitivity for 2 weeks prior to starting whitening. This paste can also be worn in your whitening trays, over the teeth for 30 minutes to provide more relief.
Treatment Timeline
Teeth Whitening
Consultation
We’ll schedule you in for a consultation to discuss your concerns and assess your suitability for teeth whitening. Here we will go over what is involved and costs of treatment. Following this, a 3D scan of your teeth will be taken and sent to the lab to create your custom whitening trays. Time: 30 minutesWhitening Tray Fit (1 week Later)
In this appointment, we will fit your custom-made whitening trays and provide you with whitening gels. We will also teach you how to use them at home and take photos. Time: 10 minutesTeeth Whitening Review (2-3 weeks Later)
After you have used the whitening, we will book you back in for a teeth whitening review. Here we will take new clinical photos and compare them to the old ones. At this stage we may advise on further whitening or discuss other cosmetic dental treatments to help you achieve your goals. Time: 15 minutesEvery case is unique depending on your needs, book in for a consultation by hitting the link below to get started on your journey.
Teeth Whitening FAQ
What is teeth whitening and how does it work?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the use of various products or techniques to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. It works by applying a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, to the surface of the teeth. The bleaching agent breaks down the molecules that cause the stains, making them less visible and giving the teeth a whiter appearance.
Is teeth whitening safe? Are there any side effects?
Teeth whitening is generally considered safe when done by a professional dentist or under their supervision. However, some people may experience temporary side effects such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Overuse or misuse of whitening products can also damage the enamel of the teeth, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and not to overdo it.
How long does teeth whitening last?
The longevity of teeth whitening results can vary depending on the individual’s habits and lifestyle. If you consume a lot of stain-causing foods and drinks or smoke, the effects may not last as long. Typically, teeth whitening can last from 6 months up to 2 years, depending on the method used and the level of maintenance.
Can anyone whiten their teeth or are there some people who can't?
Most people can whiten their teeth, but some individuals may not be suitable candidates for teeth whitening. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid teeth whitening, as well as people with tooth decay or gum disease. It’s always best to consult with a dentist before undergoing any whitening treatment.