Frequently Asked Questions
How long does teeth whitening last?
The length of time you can expect your teeth whitening treatment to last is dependent on a number of factors, including the type of treatment you receive and your lifestyle habits. Some types of teeth whitening treatments are far more effective than others. In-chair whitening, for example, is likely to last longer than a take-home teeth whitening kit. As is the case with many dental procedures, how often you brush and floss your teeth and the types of food and drink you consume will also impact the long-term effectiveness of treatment.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Hydrogen peroxide, the main ingredient in teeth whitening, is a chemical compound commonly found in bleaching products. However, its safety for your teeth depends on two main factors: the strength of the formula and the duration of its application. Providers of teeth whitening services who are not properly regulated may not fully grasp these considerations, potentially leading to misuse of hydrogen peroxide formulas that could harm your teeth.
At Adelaide Dental Spa, we ensure your safety by offering appointments with qualified dentist practitioners who understand the proper use of hydrogen peroxide in teeth whitening treatments.
Can anyone have their teeth whitened?
In general, teeth whitening is considered a safe and effective procedure for most individuals. However, there are certain exceptions to consider. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients are typically advised against undergoing teeth whitening treatments, and individuals with pre-existing sensitive teeth may need to explore alternative treatment options.
In-office teeth whitening is particularly beneficial for patients with age-related discoloration and stains from food and beverages. However, it may not yield optimal results for those whose teeth are discolored due to factors like injury, medication, or genetic predisposition.
Will teeth whitening damage my teeth?
Many individuals mistakenly believe that teeth whitening can harm their teeth. However, similar to other cosmetic procedures, when performed by a qualified dentist, there is minimal risk to dental health.
The teeth whitening industry lacks regulation to some extent, meaning providers at beauty salons may lack dental expertise to detect potential dental issues. They might recommend products or procedures that could harm oral health or apply them improperly, potentially leading to infections.
Salons are restricted in the concentrations they can use, often resulting in less effective whitening compared to dentists. Our dentists are authorized to perform 'power bleaching' with a 25% hydrogen peroxide solution, delivering impressive results quickly.
Our whitening solution includes amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) to minimize tooth sensitivity, protect enamel, and enhance tooth smoothness.
Will my teeth stay sensitive afterwards?
Another common worry is that teeth whitening can cause tooth sensitivity, often due to the misconception that hydrogen peroxide might strip away tooth enamel, exposing nerves.
When performed by a qualified dental practitioner, teeth whitening procedures should not lead to significant tooth sensitivity afterward. A trained practitioner knows the precise products to use, their concentrations, and the appropriate duration to minimise the risk of sensitivity.
Before beginning your teeth whitening session, Adelaide Dental Spa offers a complimentary consultation to assess your suitability for the procedure. If vulnerabilities are identified that could increase sensitivity, alternative treatments may be recommended.
While some mild tooth sensitivity may occur temporarily after whitening, it typically resolves within a few hours.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have caps/veneers?
Caps and veneers are popular cosmetic dental treatments used to enhance smile aesthetics. Many patients inquire about the effectiveness of Zoom whitening treatments on these materials compared to natural teeth.
In general, teeth whitening procedures typically restore crowns, caps, and veneers to their original shade but do not lighten them beyond that point.
Our dental team meticulously design crowns and veneers to match the natural whiteness of your existing teeth. If you're considering getting crowns or veneers and have concerns about the consistency of your natural teeth's whiteness, schedule a smile consultation with our experienced team. They will provide guidance on your options and ensure that procedures are sequenced correctly to achieve your desired smile.