Teeth whitening has gained significant popularity in Australia as a sought-after cosmetic dental procedure, offering individuals the opportunity to achieve a brighter, more radiant smile. A gleaming set of teeth is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to our self-confidence and overall appearance. As people become increasingly conscious of their smiles, teeth whitening has emerged as a reliable solution to counter the effects of ageing, lifestyle choices, and staining agents that can cause teeth to lose their natural lustre.
In Australia, teeth whitening is supported by a well-regulated framework that emphasises the importance of professional expertise and safety. Dental professionals administer teeth whitening treatments to yield both effective and safe results. This level of oversight ensures that individuals seeking teeth whitening can do so with the assurance that their oral health is being cared for by experts who understand the intricacies of teeth and gums. Beyond the aesthetic advantages, the benefits of teeth whitening extend to the enhancement of one’s self-esteem, social interactions, and overall sense of well-being.
What’s Involved In Teeth Whitening With A Dental Professional?
Working with a dentist from Angel Dental Care Picton ensures you the expertise of our professionals and gives you access to top-tier teeth whitening solutions. Our commitment to your oral health allows you to benefit from high-grade whitening gels meticulously designed to address deep-seated tooth stains. Through this comprehensive approach, we prioritise both the efficacy and safety of the teeth whitening process.
At Angel Dental Care Picton, we recognise that achieving a brighter smile goes hand in hand with minimising discomfort. Our specially formulated gels are not only adept at lifting stubborn stains, but they are also tailored to mitigate sensitivity, ensuring your whitening experience is as comfortable as possible. We understand that each individual’s teeth and preferences are unique, and our dental experts take this into account to create a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your needs.
Here is an outline of the teeth whitening process with most dentists.
Consultation: Before starting the teeth whitening process, you would have a consultation with a dentist. During this consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. They will also discuss your expectations and the potential outcomes of the procedure.
Preparation: If you’re deemed a suitable candidate, your dentist may take “before” photos of your teeth to track the progress of the whitening. They may also perform a dental cleaning to ensure that your teeth are free from plaque and tartar, which can affect the whitening process.
Application of Whitening Agent: The actual teeth whitening procedure usually involves applying a whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to the teeth. The concentration of the whitening agent can vary based on the brand and the dentist’s recommendation. Sometimes, a protective barrier or gel might be applied to your gums to minimise any potential irritation.
Activation: In some cases, the whitening gel may be activated using a special light or laser. This activation process helps enhance the effectiveness of the whitening agent.
Multiple Sessions (if needed): Depending on the degree of whitening you desire and the initial shade of your teeth, you may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results. Each session typically lasts around 30-60 minutes.
Monitoring and Aftercare: Throughout the process, the dentist will monitor the progress of the whitening and ensure that your teeth and gums are not experiencing any adverse effects. After the procedure, they will provide you with instructions on post-whitening care, like avoiding certain foods and beverages that could stain your teeth, as well as maintaining good oral hygiene practices.
It’s important to note that as of my last update, over-the-counter teeth whitening products containing higher concentrations of whitening agents are not legally available in Australia. Only dental professionals are allowed to administer teeth whitening treatments using these higher concentrations of whitening agents.
Who Should Consider Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to improve the appearance of teeth by improving the colour. It is generally suitable for individuals who are unhappy with the current shade of their teeth and want to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. However, not everyone may be a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. Here are some factors to consider:
Discolouration: Teeth whitening is most effective for people with extrinsic stains caused by external factors such as certain foods, beverages (like coffee, tea, red wine), tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. Intrinsic stains, which are stains that come from within the tooth structure, may be less responsive to whitening treatments.
Healthy Teeth and Gums: Candidates for teeth whitening should have overall good oral health. It’s important to have healthy teeth and gums before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, as underlying dental issues could lead to complications.
No Restorations: Teeth whitening primarily affects natural tooth enamel. If you have dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, or fillings in visible areas, keep in mind that these won’t respond to teeth whitening treatments. This can lead to uneven coloration if the natural teeth are whitened and the restorations are not.
Realistic Expectations: It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of teeth whitening. While the procedure can significantly lighten the shade of your teeth, it may not be able to achieve a perfectly white shade, especially if your teeth have significant discolouration.
Sensitive Teeth: If you have sensitive teeth or a history of gum sensitivity, you should discuss this with your dentist before undergoing teeth whitening. They can recommend appropriate measures to minimise discomfort during and after the procedure.
Dentist’s Evaluation: Ultimately, the decision to undergo teeth whitening should be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional. A dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine whether teeth whitening is a suitable option for you.
Remember that there are different methods of teeth whitening available, including in-office treatments performed by dental professionals and at-home treatments prescribed by dentists. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products might not provide the same level of effectiveness or safety as those administered under professional supervision.
If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s best to consult with a dentist who can assess your individual circumstances and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment option based on your needs and oral health.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last For Most Teeth?
The duration of teeth whitening results can vary depending on several factors, including the method of whitening, your oral hygiene habits, dietary choices, and lifestyle. Here’s a general idea of how long teeth whitening effects might last:
In-Office Teeth Whitening: Professional in-office teeth whitening treatments tend to provide more immediate and noticeable results. The effects can last anywhere from several months to around a year, depending on factors such as the original shade of your teeth, the specific treatment used, and your post-whitening habits.
At-Home Teeth Whitening: At-home teeth whitening treatments, which are typically prescribed by a dentist, can include custom-fitted trays with whitening gel. These treatments may take longer to achieve results compared to in-office treatments. Results can last between several months and up to a year, similar to in-office treatments.
Lifestyle Factors: The longevity of teeth whitening results can be influenced by your lifestyle choices. Avoiding foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured sauces, can help maintain the whiteness of your teeth. Additionally, avoiding tobacco use can prevent further discolouration.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can contribute to the longevity of your teeth whitening results. Plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene can lead to faster staining and discoloration.
Touch-Up Treatments: Some people choose to undergo occasional touch-up treatments to maintain the brightness of their teeth. These touch-ups can help extend the duration of the whitening effects.
It’s important to note that individual results can vary widely. Factors such as genetics, enamel thickness, and the extent of staining play a role in how long your teeth will stay white after a whitening treatment. If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s a good idea to discuss your expectations and concerns with a dental professional. They can provide guidance on the most suitable treatment option for you and offer recommendations for maintaining your results over time.
Why You Should Always Choose A Professional For Your Teeth Whitening
Choosing teeth whitening with a dentist instead of opting for cheaper options, such as over-the-counter products or non-professional services, offers several advantages. Here are some reasons why you might consider going to a dentist for teeth whitening:
Professional Expertise: Dentists are trained and experienced professionals who understand the complexities of oral health, including the structure and sensitivity of teeth. They can assess your individual situation and recommend the most suitable whitening approach based on your oral health and goals.
Customised Treatment: Dentists provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your specific needs, the current shade of your teeth, and any existing dental work. Customised treatment helps ensure that you achieve even and effective results.
Safe and Effective Products: Dental professionals use high-quality whitening products with carefully controlled concentrations of whitening agents. This minimises the risk of over-whitening, gum irritation, and tooth sensitivity that can occur with some over-the-counter products.
Professional Supervision: When you have teeth whitening done by a dentist, the procedure is performed under professional supervision. This reduces the likelihood of mistakes or complications that can arise when using DIY kits without proper guidance.
Potential for Faster Results: In-office teeth whitening treatments performed by dentists can often provide faster and more dramatic results compared to at-home treatments.
Addressing Dental Concerns: While performing teeth whitening, a dentist can also identify and address any underlying dental issues that may affect the success of the whitening treatment. This ensures that your teeth and gums are in optimal health before undergoing cosmetic procedures.
Longer-Lasting Results: Professional teeth whitening treatments under the guidance of a dentist tend to provide longer-lasting results compared to some over-the-counter products that may offer temporary results.
Reduced Risk of Side Effects: Dentists take precautions to protect your gums and oral tissues during the whitening process, minimising the risk of irritation or sensitivity.
Accurate Shade Matching: If you have dental restorations like crowns or veneers, a dentist can ensure that your natural teeth are whitened to match the shade of your existing dental work, providing a more consistent appearance.
Expert Advice: Dental professionals can offer advice on maintaining your whitened smile over the long term, including guidance on oral hygiene practices and dietary choices.
While professional teeth whitening from a dentist may come at a higher initial cost compared to some cheaper alternatives, the benefits in terms of safety, efficacy, and overall results often make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a brighter smile. It’s recommended to consult with a dentist to discuss your options and determine the best approach based on your individual needs and preferences. Book in for an appointment with Angel Dental Care today!