Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that may help lighten the natural colour of teeth and reduce certain types of tooth discolouration. At Zen Dentistry, we offer teeth whitening options that may include in-chair whitening and dentist-supervised take-home whitening, subject to availability and individual suitability.
Tooth discolouration can occur for various reasons, including ageing, smoking, certain foods and drinks, and changes within the tooth. The suitability and likely outcome of whitening depend on the cause of the discolouration and the condition of your teeth and gums.
Teeth Whitening Treatment Options
Depending on your dental assessment and treatment goals, your dentist may discuss available whitening options, including in-chair whitening systems such as Zoom, Pola Whitening, where offered, and take-home whitening products with custom-made trays, where appropriate.
Different whitening methods may produce different results. The degree of colour change and how long the results last vary between individuals. Whitening may not remove all stains or discolouration, and some types of discolouration may require alternative treatment options.
Whitening products do not change the colour of existing crowns, veneers, fillings or other dental restorations. If you have visible restorations, your dentist can discuss how whitening may affect the overall appearance of your smile.
What to Expect During Teeth Whitening
Before whitening treatment, your dentist will assess your teeth and gums, review your dental history and discuss whether the procedure is suitable for you. Your dentist will explain the available options, the expected benefits, limitations, potential risks and costs before treatment.
For in-chair whitening, a whitening product is applied to the teeth according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the treatment protocol. The duration of the appointment depends on the whitening system used and your individual circumstances.
For take-home whitening, your dentist will provide instructions on the appropriate use of the whitening product and trays, where prescribed. Treatment duration and the degree of colour change will vary.
Risks and Considerations
Teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. Possible side effects include temporary tooth sensitivity, gum irritation and soft-tissue irritation. The likelihood and severity of these effects vary between individuals.
Existing tooth decay, gum disease, cracks, exposed tooth roots or other dental conditions may need to be assessed and managed before whitening is considered. Whitening may also be less effective for certain types of intrinsic discolouration.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss this with your dentist before considering whitening treatment, as postponing elective whitening may be recommended.
Your dentist will discuss the potential risks, expected outcomes and alternative options relevant to your circumstances to help you make an informed decision.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
A dental assessment is required to determine whether teeth whitening is appropriate for your oral health and individual needs. Our team at Zen Dentistry can discuss the available options and provide information to help you decide whether to proceed.