Cosmetic teeth whitening is a treatment that lightens the teeth and helps to remove stains and discolouration. Unlike Dental teeth whitening where 16% (and higher) hydrogen peroxide is used, our cosmetic teeth whitening treatment uses 6% hydrogen peroxide (HP) which is the maximum legal strength that can be used cosmetically by a teeth whitening technician (NOT a dentist). This 6% HP strength is completely safe and causes no pain in comparison to a teeth whitening treatment at a dental clinic. The treatment is SO safe to the point it can be reapplied after 24 hours.

 

Causes of tooth staining. Your age plays a role in teeth staining. Over the years teeth begin to darken because of wear and tear and accumulate stains. We have notice that teenagers show dramatic results after a teeth whitening treatment. Those in their 20's and above will show results, however they will require a few treatments. Each one of us were born with a tooth colour that ranges from yellow-brownish to greenish-grey and the colour begins to intensify as we grow. Another cause of teeth staining is translucency and thinness. Your front teeth appear to be thinner in comparison to the back, which means they absorb more staining and have less pigment. Eating habits is another important reason teeth stain so quickly. What you consume will determine the changes to the colour of your teeth. Red wine, coffee, tea, soft drinks, acidic foods and citrus fruits contribute to the erosion of the tooth enamel and show more yellow coloured dentin staining. Other things like smoking, chemicals and grinding are also causes of teeth staining and changing colour.  

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Our teeth whitening treatment. The entire process normally takes about 1.5 hours including 5-10 minute rest in between. Firstly, we will identify your teeth shade using our shade set (this will allow us to see how many shades your teeth have whitened. Before and after photos are taken. A cheek retractor will be in your mouth for a while. Your gums are protected with vitamin E A blue light will shine on your teeth to start activating the 6% HP gel on your teeth. You will put on protective eyewear when the light is on and listen to music while the magic begins. This process is repeated 2 more times. 

 

Results. You can expect to see your teeth change 2-7 shades lighter after your first treatment. Keep in mind that the end result after one or many whitening treatments will be the final shade of your natural tooth colour and this is different for every individual. Sparkling white teeth can only be achieved with veneers so also take note of that when you are browsing social media and before you attend your treatment. Many of us have white spots or streaks on our teeth covered by stains and are not visible until you have a teeth whitening treatment. These white spots on your teeth while appear brighter after teeth whitening because they whiten as well. They will stand out more in the beginning and after a few days will blend in a bit more with your teeth colour.    

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Teeth whitening aftercare. Once you have had your teeth whitening, most people find that their teeth and gums feel cleaner. To keep your teeth clean and retain the new shade it is very important you follow our aftercare instructions. Avoid eating or drinking for the next 2 hours. The first 3 days are completely vital to keeping the new shade and glow; this means you will need to AVOID all foods and drinks that can cause discolouration to your teeth for example:

• Fizzy and energy drinks

• Coffee and tea

• Red wine and dark beer

• Chocolate

• Tomato

• Red Sauces

• Beetroot

• Green vegetables

• Carrots

• Berries

• Other colourful foods.

This is because your pores/dentinal tubules are still open and very susceptible to staining immediately after the treatment. Instead, you will be on a 'White Diet' for the next 48 hours. You can eat and drink anything that is clear, non-acidic, non-colourful and not harsh on the teeth, for example:

• Water

• Sparkling water

• White wine

• Lite milk

• Coconut water

• Chicken

• White Fish

• Turkey

• White rice

• Yoghurt

• White Cheese

• Potatoes

• Egg whites.

To keep a lasting result and maintain the new glow it is super helpful that you drink your beverages from a straw because it will ensure there is less contact between the liquid and your teeth and overall less staining. We also recommend that you use the teeth wipes for the next 24 hours in place of brushing your teeth (this is also really good for those that feel sensitive after the treatment). Ensure you regularly visit your dentist for check ups and use toothpaste that will protect your gums and cleans your teeth at the same time.