Considering Teeth Whitening? 6 Questions to Ask
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry services in Australia, with the potential to restore a bright smile and self confidence. Teeth whitening is a straightforward and low risk process, but it is important to have a good understanding of what is involved and the results which can be achieved. If you’re weighing up between at-home or professional teeth whitening and looking for a bit of guidance, we recommend asking your dentist the following questions to help you make an informed decision.
Why are my teeth discoloured?
Whilst it is normal to have some degree of discolouration due to age, diet and personal habits, teeth can also become discoloured for other reasons. It is important to rule out the possibility of an underlying dental issue, as this would need to be addressed prior to treatment. Discussing the reasons for tooth discolouration with your dentist can be very helpful, as they will provide professional advice regarding the cause and treatment options available. Professional teeth whitening is ideal for people with teeth which are slightly yellow, but it may not be the best option if your teeth have a black, brown or grey appearance. Certain food and beverages may also cause discolouration, along with tobacco and some medications. Following your whitening treatment, it may be best to avoid these so that you can enjoy a brighter smile for as long as possible.
How safe is this treatment?
Whilst professional teeth whitening is non-invasive and straightforward, some off the shelf treatments may be less effective and potentially even dangerous. Professional teeth whitening is the safest and most effective form of teeth whitening, as it is administered by experienced dental professionals who have access to professional grade hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Some off the shelf whitening kits have been found to contain high concentrations of these chemical compounds, which can potentially cause burns. Regardless of whether you opt for off the shelf or professional teeth whitening, always make sure you have an understanding of the safety risks.
Are there any side effects I should know about?
You should always consult with your dentist prior to deciding on a teeth whitening treatment. Kits can be manufactured to varying standards. In cases where the trays are poorly finished, there exists a risk of the bleaching agent leaking and causing some gum and/or soft tissue irritation.
Most people only experience minor side effects, with the most common being increased tooth sensitivity in the days following treatment. Your dentist will inform you of any potential side effects, so that you can rest easy and know exactly what to expect.
What results can I expect?
Whilst many people expect to see a dramatic improvement in the appearance of their teeth, this is not always the case. It is important to maintain realistic expectations. In general, you can expect your teeth to look up to 2-3 shades whiter.
I’m due to attend an event, when should I book an appointment for teeth whitening?
Many people choose to whiten their teeth prior to attending a special occasion. If you plan to use an at-home whitening kit, then you should typically allow about 2-3 weeks for the treatment to take full effect. In-chair teeth whitening is a much faster and more effective process, and a single appointment is all that is needed for immediate enhancement of your smile.
How long will the results last?
It is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine following treatment. Most people enjoy a brighter, whiter smile for between 6-24 months. When you notice the results starting to fade, you can make an appointment with your dentist for another treatment.
Enhance Your Smile – Book a Teeth Whitening Consultation Today
Sydney Park Dental are a leading provider of professional teeth whitening services in Sydney. If you have questions about professional teeth whitening or are interested in making a booking, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today.