Teeth Whitening

We use Phillips’ Zoom whitening system for fast and effective results.  The one hour in-chair procedure combines a patented whitening gel with the use of the Zoom Speed Light.  This procedure is designed to lighten your teeth by up to 8 shades.

During the procedure we will apply a rubber lip and tongue shield and a liquid latex gum shield.  The whitening gel is applied to your teeth and the light sits above them with the gel being refreshed several times throughout the treatment.

During the procedure you can relax laying back in the chair with your feet up, watching your favourite TV show.

The effects of in-chair whitening are immediately noticeable and many patients choose to maximise and maintain their whitening results with the use of an at-home whitening system.

Here at Polar Dental we have helped many people achieve beautiful, whiter smiles using Boutique Whitening.  Boutique Whitening is a system that we trust, that we use ourselves, and that we find gives consistently amazing results. 

Boutique Whitening comes in different formulas so that you can whiten your teeth during the day, or overnight as you sleep. The Day kit contains 6% hydrogen peroxide and is designed for 2 hours wear per day.

The Night kits come as either 10% or 16% carbamide peroxide, which is designed for 6 hours overnight wear. While both kits will produce the same end result, we will be able to explain the differences in the types of bleach and advise the correct formula for you. This will be based on various factors, including your lifestyle, preferences and dental history.

TEETH WHITENING CONSIDERATIONS

Sensitivity – Teeth can become sensitive during or after the whitening procedure which usually disappears after a day or two.  Sensitivity can help be prevented by using a product called Toothmouse prior to and after whitening, or with the use of a sensitive toothpaste.

Multi-coloured teeth – Fillings, crowns and veneers on front teeth won’t change colour with teeth whitening. There is a risk they may not match the other teeth exactly after whitening.  If new crowns or veneers are planned or recommended, it is advised to complete the tooth whitening two months prior so that the colour of the teeth will stabilize and the new fillings or crowns can be made to match the whiter tooth colour.

Lifestyle habits - Smoking, red wine, tea and coffee will all slowly discolour the teeth again over time and maintenance of whitening longer term is often needed.  Some people will follow up with six monthly or yearly touch ups with take home whitening.  In-chair whitening can be performed at regular intervals and annually as requested.

Variation in results – Not everyone’s teeth will lighten at the same rate as others.  Most people’s teeth will look much brighter and cleaner after whitening however, a ‘celebrity white’ is difficult to achieve with whitening alone (and without photo filters!).

Should I whiten my teeth?

Lifestyle habits like drinking tea, coffee and red wine can darken or stain teeth, as well as the natural darkening that comes with with age.  The easiest and most popular way to brighten up your smile is through professional teeth whitening.

Not everyone’s teeth are suited to teeth whitening, and not everyone will achieve the same results.  We will assess if you are suitable for teeth whitening and discuss the best options with you.

It is important that the teeth and gums are healthy before whitening them.  Teeth should be examined and photographs should be taken beforehand.  The teeth should also be cleaned prior to whitening to remove tartar and surface staining, which may also help to lighten the teeth and improve the appearance.