Professional Teeth Whitening in Joondalup

Professional teeth whitening treatments offer several advantages over over-the-counter products. These treatments, whether performed in-clinic or using dentist-supervised at-home kits, use stronger whitening agents and provide customised care.

Let’s explore the key differences between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter options.

• Strength of Whitening Agents
  Professional teeth whitening treatments use stronger whitening agents compared to over-the-counter products. The higher concentration of bleaching agents in professional treatments leads to more effective and faster whitening results.

  
  Over-the-counter products, such as teeth whitening strips, gels, or toothpaste, contain lower concentrations of whitening agents to provide safety for unsupervised use. While these products can provide gradual whitening results, they may require longer treatment times and may not be as effective as professional treatments.

• Customisation and Professional Supervision
  Professional teeth whitening treatments are tailored to your specific needs and goals. In-clinic treatments allow the dentist to control the application of the whitening gel and monitor the process closely. Consequently, this can deliver optimal results and minimise the risk of side effects.

  
  Meanwhile, over-the-counter products offer a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not be suitable for everyone. Without professional guidance, it can be difficult to estimate the appropriate duration of treatment. In addition, it may be difficult to address individual concerns, such as tooth sensitivity or uneven whitening.

• Safety and Reliability
  Professional treatments are generally more reliable and safer than over-the-counter products for whitening teeth. Dentists can assess your oral health and determine if whitening is appropriate for you, reducing the risk of complications.
  
  

  Conversely, over-the-counter whitening products may contain abrasive ingredients that can damage tooth enamel if misused. Additionally, without professional guidance, there is a higher risk of experiencing side effects, such as sensitivity or gum irritation, when using these products.

• Long-Lasting Results
  Compared to over-the-counter products, professional teeth whitening treatments often provide longer-lasting results. The stronger bleaching agents and professional application techniques used in clinics can lead to more dramatic and durable whitening outcomes.

  
  Over-the-counter products generally produce more gradual and less dramatic results. The effects may not last as long, and you may need to repeat the treatment more frequently to maintain the whitening results.

While over-the-counter whitening products can be convenient and cost-effective, they may not produce the same level of whitening or longevity as professional treatments. If you are considering teeth whitening, it is highly recommended that you consult our friendly team. We will make every effort to determine the right treatment option for your needs and deliver the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

For the most part, teeth whitening is safe and effective. However, certain aspects can affect a person’s suitability for the treatment. Here are some of the factors to consider:

• Types of Tooth Discolouration
  Generally, tooth whitening is particularly effective for extrinsic stains, which are surface stains caused by factors such as food, beverages, and smoking. Meanwhile, intrinsic stains, which occur within the tooth due to medications, injury, or ageing, may not respond as well to whitening treatments.
• Dental Restorations
  Teeth whitening treatment only works on natural teeth and will not affect the colour of dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have dental restorations, your professional dentist may recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to achieve a uniform smile.
• Age and Dental Health
  Teeth whitening is recommended for adults and is not suitable for children whose teeth are still developing. It is also crucial that patients have healthy gums and teeth without any signs of decay or gum disease. Hence, it is important to manage these dental issues first before proceeding with the actual teeth whitening treatment.

To find out if teeth whitening is suitable for you, it is advisable to consult a professional. During a consultation, your dentist will:

• Evaluate your dental health and identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed before whitening.
• Analyse the type and severity of your tooth discolouration to determine if whitening treatments are likely to be effective.
• Discuss your desired results and provide recommendations on the appropriate whitening methods for your needs.
• Identify any potential risks or side effects based on your circumstances and provide instructions on how to minimise them.

Alternative Cosmetic Treatments

In cases where teeth whitening may not be suitable, your dentist can recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to improve the appearance of your smile. These may include:

• Dental bonding involves applying tooth-coloured resin to teeth to cover discolouration, close gaps, or improve their shape.
• Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded over the front surface of the teeth to conceal discolouration, improve shape, and create a uniform smile.
• Crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over severely discoloured or damaged teeth to improve their appearance and protect them from further damage.

Although teeth whitening can be a great way to improve the appearance of your smile, it may not be suitable for everyone. By consulting with a dentist, you can figure out whether teeth whitening is the right option for you. Meanwhile, you can also explore other treatment options that may be more appropriate to help you achieve the smile you desire.

The frequency of professional teeth whitening treatments varies depending on individual needs and preferences. However, the following are highly recommended:

• Initial whitening treatment
  If you’ve never had your teeth professionally whitened, you may need an initial consult and whitening treatment to achieve your desired level of whiteness. Depending on the severity of discolouration and the whitening method used, this may involve one or more sessions.
• Touch-up treatments
  After the initial treatment, your dentist may suggest touch-up treatments every six to 12 months to prolong your results. The frequency depends on factors such as your diet and lifestyle habits, oral hygiene practices, and the type of whitening treatment used.
• Customised recommendations
  Your dentist can provide personalised advice based on your needs and dental condition. They will consider factors such as the natural colour of your teeth, the presence of any restorations, and your oral health status.

It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations and not overdo teeth whitening treatments. Excessive use can lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental problems. If you have any concerns about the frequency of professional teeth whitening, consult your dentist for guidance tailored to your individual needs.

Teeth whitening is a highly effective cosmetic procedure for enhancing your smile, but it can come with some potential side effects. At Candlewood Dental Centre Joondalup, we help our patients be well-informed about what to expect.

Here are the most common side effects associated with teeth whitening:

• Tooth Sensitivity:
  This is one of the common side effects of teeth whitening. The bleaching agents applied in the whitening process can temporarily increase sensitivity to temperature, pressure, and touch. Sensitivity usually peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours following the procedure and gradually subsides. We can recommend specific products, like sensitivity toothpaste or gels, to help manage this discomfort.
• Gum Irritation:
  Also known as gingival irritation, this happens when the whitening gel comes in contact with your gums. The symptoms are usually mild and temporary, subsiding within a few days. Our team will take careful steps to protect your gums during the application process to minimise this risk.

Please keep in mind that these side effects are generally mild and temporary. We provide detailed post-treatment care instructions and are always available to address any concerns or symptoms you might experience after your teeth whitening session. Our goal is to make your journey to a brighter smile as comfortable and effective as possible.

Maintaining your teeth whitening results is important to keep your smile looking bright and beautiful. To maximise your whitening results, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• • Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks:
    To prevent new stains, limit your intake of foods and beverages that can discolour your teeth. These include coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries. If you do consume these, consider using a straw to minimise contact with your whiter teeth.
  • Quit Smoking:
    Tobacco is a major cause of tooth discolouration. Quitting smoking can not only help maintain your whitening results but also improve your overall oral and general health.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
    Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Using a whitening toothpaste can help reduce surface stains and prevent yellowing. For an extra boost, consider using teeth whitening strips occasionally, as directed by our dental team.
  • Regular Dental Visits:
    Schedule dental cleanings and check-ups every six months. Professional cleanings help reduce plaque and surface stains, which can significantly extend the life of your whitening results.
  • Touch-Up Treatments:
    Depending on your habits and the recommendations of our team, occasional touch-up treatments may be necessary. We can provide custom-fitted whitening trays for at-home use, which are designed to work over several years with periodic touch-ups.

Drink Plenty of Water: Drinking water after meals helps to wash away staining substances from the teeth and is good for overall oral health.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your whiter, brighter smile for as long as possible. Candlewood Dental Centre Joondalup is here to support you with tailored advice and treatments, helping your teeth remain in great condition.