Teeth Whitening
in Sutherland Shire

When performed under the supervision of a qualified and experienced dentist, teeth whitening is a safe cosmetic procedure for patients of any age. However, it is generally recommended for patients with all of their adult teeth in healthy condition.

 Teenagers can have their teeth whitened once all their permanent teeth have erupted. If you’re a teenager or have a child interested in teeth whitening, we recommend you talk to your dentist to determine if this dental procedure is right for you. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an initial consultation appointment at The Smile Space. Our friendly team will happily answer all your questions and assist you.

According to a policy statement of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), numerous peer-reviewed studies have found that peroxide-containing teeth whitening products are safe when used by or under the supervision of a professional dentist. 

However, only registered dental health professionals can assess if teeth bleaching is safe for individual patients, recommend the most appropriate whitening product and dental technique, and provide teeth whitening treatment that meets safety regulations and quality standards of dental care. We invite you to schedule a consultation appointment with one of the qualified and experienced dentists at The Smile Space. We will be happy to discuss teeth whitening treatment options with you.

During an in-chair teeth whitening procedure, your dentist will first cover the gums surrounding your teeth with either a rubber shield or a protective gel. It shields your gums from the bleaching gel so that the gel only comes into contact with your teeth. Next, the dentist will apply the whitening gel to your teeth. This gel contains a type of peroxide responsible for bleaching your teeth. 

Finally, a special light or laser is used to hasten the bleaching process. The entire in-office teeth whitening procedure can be completed in just one visit, lasting about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the level of tooth discolouration and your desired shade.

Here are a few tips to help you maintain your teeth whitening results:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
  It will help remove any build-up of plaque or bacteria that can cause staining.
  
  
• Floss daily to remove food particles or bacteria trapped between your teeth.
  
  
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for dental checkups and teeth cleanings. This will help to remove any build-up of tartar or stains.
  
  
• Avoid drinking tooth-staining drinks such as red wine, soda, tea, or coffee. If you can’t avoid them, use a straw.
  
  
• Avoid eating tooth-staining coloured foods such as tomato sauce, blueberries, and chocolate. If you can’t avoid them, be sure to rinse your mouth and brush your teeth after consuming them.
  
  
• Avoid acidic and sugary foods.
  These foods can cause teeth enamel to erode, making your teeth more susceptible to staining.
  
  
• Get periodic maintenance whitening treatments.
  These can help touch up any new teeth stains that may have developed since your last treatment.
  
  
• Don’t smoke.
  
  Smoking stains teeth and causes them to be yellow over time.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps to wash away food debris and plaque, and it also helps to keep your gums hydrated.

The answer depends on a few factors, including how well you care for your teeth and the type of teeth whitening treatment you had. In general, the effects of teeth whitening can last for several months. 

However, some people see results that last for 2-3 years. To help prolong the results of your cosmetic treatment, follow your dentist’s post-whitening instructions, practise good oral hygiene habits, and avoid pigmented foods and beverages that can stain your teeth.