Tooth discolouration is a common concern for many Australians, often caused by factors such as smoking, certain foods and beverages, and the natural process of ageing.
As a result, many individuals feel self-conscious, which can impact their confidence in both social and professional settings.
The good news is that teeth whitening treatments have become more accessible and effective in recent years. With a variety of options available, achieving a brighter, whiter smile has never been easier.
In this guide, we’ll cover :
- The most effective teeth whitening treatments
- What to expect during the whitening process
- Whether teeth whitening is right for you
Located in the heart of Mona Vale, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve a stunning, long-lasting smile.
Our range of professional teeth whitening services is tailored to meet your needs and deliver the best possible results.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a popular and non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to lighten the colour of your teeth and remove stains or discolouration.
It is a safe and effective procedure widely used to enhance the appearance of a smile.
During the treatment, a whitening agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is applied to the teeth. These substances change the yellow or brown pigment of the teeth to a whiter, brighter shade.
Costs of Teeth Whitening
Depending on the technique selected, teeth whitening prices can vary quite a lot depending on the type of treatment application.
| Whitening Method | Average Cost | Duration of Results | Treatment Time |
| In-Chair Professional Whitening | $600 – $1000 | 1-3 years | 1-2 hours |
| Take-Home Professional Kit | $300-$600 | 6 months – 1 year | 1-2 weeks |
| Over-the-Counter Kits | $30-$100 | 3-6 months | 1-2 weeks |
| Whitening Toothpaste | $5-$20 | Ongoing with continued use | Daily use |
Important Note : These are average costs only, and this may change depending on the type of treatment you might require.
You can always chat with our friendly and experienced dentists; to book in a teeth whitening consultation so you are fully aware of what the final costs will be, without any surprises.
Also check out our guide on Teeth Straightening
The Types of Teeth Whitening: What to Expect from Teeth Whitening?
There are a few different types of treatments that are available to you, especially if you are considering whitening your teeth.
Including options at our clinic performed by our highly experienced dentists as well as take-home kits and further whitening solutions.
1. In Chair Teeth Whitening
We use professional, in-chair teeth-whitening techniques and tools to provide services that accommodate your needs, using tools such as the Philips Zoom whitening system for our patients.
This particular type of treatment is performed by our dentists, which can take around an hour to complete, from start to finish.
The process includes :
1. Preparation :
To make sure that your teeth and gums are in good condition for teeth whitening, our dentists will check them over through an initial assessment.
2. Protection for your lips and cheeks :
A special tool is applied to keep your lips and cheeks away from your teeth, and a protective layer of gel is applied to your gums.
3. Application :
Your teeth are then coated with the Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel.
4. Activation :
To increase the gel’s whitening effectiveness, a light is used to activate it, which is used over all your teeth being whitened.
5. Repetition :
During the single appointment, this process is repeated three times in 15-minute increments.
6. What you should expect after :
Your teeth will become between 6 and 8 shades whiter after the treatment. Some people may feel a temporary sensitivity after the treatment, but this usually goes away within a few days time.
2. Take Home Teeth Whitening Kits
A take-home whitening kit is the middle ground between a professional whitening treatment in the chair and a home solution.
Typically, a kit like this will include :
- Custom-made trays, which are moulded to fit your teeth correctly.
- A whitening gel comes in the kit, which is usually made from carbamide peroxide.
- Directions and instructions for the correct usage and treatment duration.
Some other types of kits might include the following:
- One size of trays or strips, without moulded customisation.
- Teeth whitening strips or a gel.
- In some kits, an LED light may be included to uplift the whitening process.
What to expect after this :
In some situations, an LED light may improve whitening of your teeth, with take-home kits showing results after 1-2 weeks of regular use.
Depending on your lifestyle choices as well as oral hygiene practices, the whitening effects can last from a few months to a year.
3. Tooth Whitening Toothpaste
A common solution that can often be bought over the counter for a whiter smile is a whitening type of toothpaste.
This works in a way that :
- Uses gentle and mild abrasives to remove surface stains
- Contain very low amounts of hydrogen peroxide
- Uses chemical agents to help aid in stain removal and dissolve stains
Although whitening toothpastes can help keep your teeth white and stop further stains from appearing, They won’t actually alter the natural colour of your teeth or completely remove stains like professional treatments.
Common FAQ’s
1. Can anyone get teeth whitening?
Most people can safely get their teeth whitened, but it’s not recommended for everyone. Patients with healthy gums and teeth are best suited for these types of treatments.
Before beginning any whitening process, anyone with sensitive teeth, gum disease, damaged enamel, or if you are pregnant should speak with a dentist.
2. How long will teeth whitening last?
Depending on the type of teeth-whitening techniques used and your lifestyle choices will ultimately affect how long your teeth-whitening results can last.
- Professional in-chair teeth whitening: 1-3 years
- Professional take-home kits: 6 months-1 year
- Kits sold over the counter: 3 to 6 months
- Whitening toothpaste: Can last with on-going and sustained use
For long-lasting results, to maintain and keep your teeth remaining whiter for longer, proper dental hygiene is required, as is avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth over time.
3. Will teeth whitening affect my fillings or crowns?
No, fillings, veneers, and crowns will not be affected by teeth-whitening treatments. If you have dental restorations such as these, and in order to match your newly whitened teeth, you may need to consider replacing any dental restorations you currently have.
You can always speak to our team of professional dentists, who can guide you in the right direction and provide some options on the best method for you.
4. What is the most effective way to whiten teeth?
The most successful teeth-whitening techniques offered at Smile Doctor is our professional in-chair whitening treatment.
We use tools such as the Philips Zoom utilised in our dental clinic; this provides dramatically rapid results in just one session in the chair.
Often resulting in your teeth becoming 6 to 8 shades whiter, which is most effective if you’re considering having your teeth whitened.
5. Can I eat normally after teeth whitening?
We advise that after having any sort of treatment, you avoid consuming darker-coloured foods and drinks for at least 24-48 hours following a professional whitening procedure.
This period of time is known as the “white diet.” You can go back to your regular diet after this initial phase; however, avoiding eating and drinking food that stains your teeth will help maintain a brighter and whiter smile.
6. How often should you use teeth whitening strips?
Typically, once daily or a few times per week is usually the best option. Using teeth whitening strips as prescribed on the instructions of the package recommendations.
As overuse can lead to your teeth becoming quite sensitive, so we suggest giving your teeth a rest in between treatments.
Whiten Your Teeth at Smile Doctor
Your confidence and overall smile can be improved by having brighter and whiter teeth. While there are several treatment options for teeth whitening, our professional procedures at our dental clinic provide better-proven and longer-lasting results.
At our Mona Vale Dental Clinic, we’re here to assist you in achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Our supportive and professional dentists can help guide you towards the best options available and tailor our techniques used to help you achieve beautiful teeth.
To arrange your teeth whitening consultation, get in touch and book an appointment with us at Smile Doctors today and let us partner with you.
