FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: WHAT IS TEETH WHITENING?
A: Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that helps to lighten teeth by removing stains and discolouration.
All teeth whitening products contain peroxide, either as carbamide peroxide (CP) or hydrogen peroxide (HP)
Q: HOW DOES TEETH WHITENING WORK?
A: Most of us start out with white teeth, thanks to their porcelain-like enamel surface which is composed of microscopic crystalline rods. Tooth enamel is designed to protect the teeth from the effects of chewing, gnashing, trauma and acid attacks caused by sugar. But over the years enamel is worn down, becoming more transparent and permitting the yellow colour of dentin – the tooth's core material – to show through. During routine chewing, dentin remains intact while millions of micro-cracks occur in the enamel. It is these cracks, as well as the spaces between the crystalline enamel rods, that gradually fill up with stains and debris. As a result, the teeth eventually develop a dull, lacklustre appearance.
Q: HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT TAKE?
A: One hour is all that is needed to achieve maximum results.
A triple treatment consists of 3 x 20 minutes sessions.
A double treatment consist of 2 x 20 minutes sessions.
Q: WHAT RESULTS CAN BE EXPECTED?
A: This depends on each individual and the extent of discoloration, generally from 5-14 shades lighter can be achieved. The more stained your teeth the more dramatic the result will be. Teeth whitening whether done by a dentist or another technician will not whiten your tooth enamel the process will bleach the stains on the surface of your teeth. The results are also relevant to how regularly you have a teeth whitening procedure or use home whitening treatments. Where whitening is done every 6-12 months it is considered a maintenance procedure and results will be less dramatic.
Q. SHOULD TEETH WHITENING BE DONE BY A DENTIST?
A. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that is non-dental. The products we use are gentler than and just as effective as those used by the dentist. All our products are Australian compliant and produced to the highest standards. Teeth whitening, no matter who does it bleaches stains from the surface of the teeth it does not whiten enamel.
Q: IS TEETH WHITENING SAFE?
A: We offer the latest whitening gel approved for use in Australia. We have a hygienic non-touch procedure at NO time will a technician touch you or your mouth. Our gel is gentle and safe, problems are extremely rare. Teeth Whitening is safe for crowns and veneers although these will not lighten as much as natural teeth.
Q: IS TEETH WHITENING SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?
A: Teeth whitening is a treatment most people want and can have, however, it is not recommended for children under 16 years of age or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not have a teeth whitening treatment if you have gum disease or are requiring dental work.
Q: HOW LONG WILL A TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT LAST?
A: Teeth will maintain their fresh new appearance for around 6 months to one year. Re-staining depends largely on diet and lifestyle. Smoking, coffee, tea, fruit juice, sodas all staining foods and beverages will eventually re-stain the surface of your teeth.
Q: WHAT RISKS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH TEETH WHITENING?
A: It is common to experience slight sensitivity, gum irritation and calcium spotting for up to 48 hours post treatment.
Q: HOW CAN I MAINTAIN A WHITER SMILE POST TREATMENT?
A: To keep your teeth whiter for longer we recommend the following:
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Brushing twice daily
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Flossing regularly
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Drinking plenty of water
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Avoiding heavily coloured foods and beverages
For optimal results, a top up treatment is highly recommended 4 - 6 weeks post initial treatment to maintain whiteness.
Q: WHAT CAUSES TEETH DISCOLOURATION?
Your age
Your natural starting colour
The translucency and thinness of your teeth
Consuming heavily coloured food and beverages
Smoking
Consuming drugs and chemicals
Grinding of teeth