Professional Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the color of teeth that are darkened or discolored. This treatment is often sought for aesthetic reasons, to enhance the brightness and appearance of one’s smile. Dental professionals are best suited to identify the underlying causes of tooth discoloration and to advise on the most effective whitening treatments.

Professional teeth whitening typically involves the application of whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are the primary ingredients in tooth whitening products used by dentists in Australia. The concentration of the whitening gel varies depending on whether the treatment is administered in a dental clinic or at home, with dentists using stronger gels for in-office treatments.

When performed by qualified dental professionals, teeth whitening is considered safe. The process uses approved whitening agents applied to the teeth under controlled conditions, ensuring both the safety and the efficacy of the treatment. The dentist takes precautions to protect the gums and the rest of the mouth during the procedure.

In-chair or in-office teeth whitening, conducted by a dentist, generally takes about an hour. This method utilises a strong hydrogen peroxide gel, often activated with a special light. The treatment provides immediate results. Dentists may also recommend a follow-up with take-home whitening treatments to maintain the achieved tooth color.

The outcome of teeth whitening varies from person to person. Factors influencing the results include the original shade of the teeth, the type of staining, and the method of whitening employed. Professional whitening typically results in a significant improvement in the brightness and whiteness of teeth. Reasons for seeking whitening include enhancing self-confidence, achieving a youthful appearance, preparing for special occasions, or reversing discoloration from aging, wear, or accidents.

The longevity of teeth whitening effects differs based on various factors. Professional in-office whitening can last from six months to two years, influenced by diet, oral hygiene practices, and tobacco use. At-home whitening kits tend to yield results that last from six months to a year. Regular dental care, avoiding staining foods and beverages, and occasional touch-up treatments can help maintain the whiteness for a longer period.

It’s common to experience temporary tooth sensitivity and mild gingival inflammation after vital tooth whitening treatments. This sensitivity usually diminishes shortly after the treatment is completed. Dentists may recommend specific toothpastes or other products to reduce sensitivity during and after the whitening process.

Most adults can safely undergo teeth whitening. However, it is typically not recommended for children and pregnant women. Prior to starting any bleaching procedure, a comprehensive dental examination is crucial. This includes reviewing health and dental history, which can help identify factors contributing to tooth discoloration and any previous instances of tooth sensitivity.

Besides temporary tooth sensitivity and mild gingival inflammation, teeth whitening is generally safe when conducted under the supervision of a dental professional. Following your dentist’s instructions closely can help minimize any potential side effects.

Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic (surface) stains. However, it may be less effective or not effective at all on intrinsic (deep) stains, discolored dental restorations, or discoloration caused by certain medications or tooth injuries.

In-office whitening, performed by a dentist, provides faster and more noticeable results using stronger bleaching agents and is typically completed in about an hour. Take-home whitening kits, on the other hand, offer more gradual results over a period of several weeks, using lower-strength whitening gels.

To maintain the results of teeth whitening, practice good oral hygiene, limit intake of staining foods and beverages, avoid smoking, and attend regular dental check-ups. Additionally, some patients might benefit from occasional touch-up treatments as suggested by their dentist.

Teeth whitening does not alter the color of dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, or veneers. If these restorations become noticeably different in color compared to the whitened natural teeth, they may need to be replaced to match.

The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary widely depending on the type of treatment and the specific dental clinic. It is advisable to consult with your dentist to obtain specific pricing information and to understand the potential costs involved in the treatment.

Teeth whitening is typically categorized as a cosmetic procedure, making it elective rather than medically necessary. As a result, most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. However, patients should explore various financing options or special offers from dental clinics to make teeth whitening treatments more affordable.

The frequency at which teeth whitening can be safely performed depends on the specific method used and individual tooth sensitivity. For professional in-office whitening, it is usually recommended to limit treatments to no more than once per year to avoid over-bleaching and increased sensitivity. For at-home whitening kits, adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines and dentist’s recommendations is important to prevent potential harm to teeth and gums.

Yes, you can whiten your teeth at home using various over-the-counter products. These products can be effective, but it is highly recommended to consult with a dentist before starting any home whitening regimen. A dentist can assess whether your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening and suggest the most appropriate and safe products for use.

Before undergoing a teeth whitening session, it’s wise to have a dental check-up to address any oral health issues, such as cavities or gum disease. Additionally, having a professional cleaning can help remove surface stains and plaque, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the whitening treatment.

Teeth whitening is effective in removing many external (extrinsic) stains caused by food, drinks, and smoking. However, it may not effectively address internal (intrinsic) discolorations caused by factors like medication, trauma, or fluorosis. In these cases, alternative cosmetic treatments, such as veneers, may be more appropriate.

Smoking can significantly undermine the results of teeth whitening treatments. Tobacco products lead to stains that can diminish the effects of whitening. Continued smoking post-whitening can rapidly result in re-staining of the teeth. For optimal and lasting results, it is advisable to quit smoking or significantly reduce smoking frequency.