Visiting your dentist for professional teeth whitening is increasingly popular among Australians of all ages. Unlike over-the-counter teeth whitening products, dentists can offer teeth whitening products with a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, making the process faster and more effective. Below we answer common questions people have about professional teeth whitening.

How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?

Professional teeth whitening involves a relatively simple and non-invasive process. Your dentist first assesses the initial shade of your teeth, whether you’re a good candidate for the treatment and discusses your end goal. Treatment is then carried over a few steps:

  • A pre-activation spray is applied to your teeth with a sponge brush
  • A mouth tray with whitening gel is placed on your teeth
  • A dental grade LED light is placed over your mouth to activate the gel while you sit back and relax.

This process can take as little as 15 minutes and can be repeated multiple times depending on your teeth and the exact results you want to achieve.

How is It Different From Over-the-Counter Products?

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products contain a lower concentration of whitening chemicals. For example, most products won’t contain more than 6 per cent hydrogen peroxide or 18 per cent carbamide peroxide. This is because higher concentrations can potentially cause chemical burns if not handled by professionals using appropriate tools, which is why they may only be used by a registered teeth whitening dentist in a clinical environment.

Does Teeth Whitening Work for Everyone?

Usually, teeth whitening treatments are better for teeth that are yellow than teeth that are grey, brown or black. If the discolouration is caused by an underlying dental issue, this will need to be addressed first. Teeth with dark stains may be better treated with veneers, bonding or crowns. Your dentist will help you understand the cause of your discolouration and whether teeth whitening is the best way to address it.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

While the process involves some powerful chemicals, teeth whitening is safe when administered by a professional. Dentists have special tools and processes to eliminate all the potential risks involved with teeth whitening, such as special guards to protect your gums.

How Long Do the Results Last?

Results will vary in each case, depending on the colour of your teeth and lifestyle choices. Things that can discolour teeth include smoking, coffee, tea, red wine and most other food and drinks with colour. Avoiding these can help to maintain the results of your professional teeth whitening treatment.

Get Your Teeth Whitened at King Street Dental

At King Street Dental, we offer high quality general and specialised dental care services to people of all ages from our clinic in Templestowe. Our professional and friendly team of dentists have extensive experience with everything from teeth whitening to dental implants and orthodontic treatments.

Book an appointment today by calling (03) 8842 4506  or contact us online.