Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the colour of your teeth by removing stains and discolouration. It is a safe, effective procedure and does not change the structure of teeth; it merely makes them appear whiter and brighter.

The key difference lies in the strength of the products used and the qualifications of the provider. By law, beauty salons are only permitted to use tooth whitening products containing up to 6% hydrogen peroxide or 18% carbamide peroxide. These are lower-strength formulas that may not deliver the same level of whitening, especially for more stubborn stains or significant colour improvement. As a registered Oral Health Therapist, I am qualified and licensed to use the highest-strength whitening products available, exceeding the limits allowed in beauty salons. These professional-grade products ensure faster, more effective, and longer-lasting results. Additionally, the treatment is carried out under my expertise, ensuring safety and a personalized approach to achieve your desired shade while protecting your teeth and gums.

When it comes to whitening your teeth, professional care not only delivers superior results but also ensures your oral health is in expert hands. 

I utilise the Beyond teeth whitening system due to the addition of special ingredients that reduce the risk of sensitivity, whilst delivering clinically proven results. This involves a high strength hydrogen peroxide application to your teeth which can only be applied by qualified and registered dental practitioner. 

Before and after the treatment, the shade of the teeth will be assessed and recorded by photographs and discussed. The Beyond peroxide based gel is placed on the teeth and a specialised lamp will be used to activate the gel. This combination is repeated three times for 10 minutes. Prior to the treatment a protective barrier is placed on the gums and a plastic retractor is utilised for the entire treatment. The treatment can be ceased at any time by the individual. 

Longevity of results will vary or regress due to a variety of factors such as diet (coffee intake, red wine and highly coloured foods), smoking, oral hygiene habits and maintenance. Whitening maintenance of your teeth will enhance the appearance and can be achieved through touch up at home treatments (available on website) and 6 monthly in chair whitening sessions. 

In some individuals, tooth whitening can cause temporary sensitivity. Our take home kits include a desensitising paste for post whitening treatment. I also recommend the use of Recaldent Tooth Mousse application before and after treatment (not suitable for individuals with dairy intolerances).

Most people are good candidates for whitening although there are exceptions:

• People with significant tooth sensitivity prior to whitening procedures (alternative procedures are available)
• People with significant periodontal/gum disease 
• People with fillings that may be breaking down, unfilled cavities in their teeth or chipped or worn teeth may be better treated by restorative procedures first
• Tooth whitening is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women 
• People with minimal discoloration (teeth that are already white) may not see a substantial colour change (alternative procedures are available)

No, only natural teeth will whiten and any restorative material (such as caps, crowns, veneers, composite etc) exposed to the whitening gel and light will not whiten. It may be necessary to have these materials replaced by a dentist to match the new tooth shade. This will be at your own cost. I will endeavour to match the current shade of your restored teeth. 

There are no guarantees as to the degree of whitening of your teeth as this will vary for each individual. Additional whitening sessions and the use of other appropriate whitening systems may be required to obtain the desired results. In some instances, subsequent treatments over a longer period are needed to be effective. 

In the following 72 hours, your take home treatment pack needs to be utilised to enhance and stabilise results. Individuals will need to avoid the use of tobacco and teeth-staining food and beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine, cola, tomato paste, citrus and any coloured drinks and dark green vegetables for 2 days post treatment.