Professional in-office tooth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic dental procedure that dramatically enhances the brightness of your smile under our supervision. This treatment uses high-concentration bleaching agents to deliver noticeable results often in just one visit, far surpassing over the counter options.
In-office tooth whitening involves the application of professional grade whitening gels directly to teeth. The gel penetrate the enamel to break down deep seated stains within the tooth structure. Unlike at home kits with lower concentrations, this method ensures controlled, potent whitening while protecting surrounding tissues.
The process targets both extrinsic stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco and intrinsic stains from yellowing within dentine from aging or medications. Results can lighten teeth by 5-8 shades by providing a natural, uniform brightness.
The treatment begins with a thorough dental examination to assess enamel health, cavities and gum conditions to ensure suitability. Teeth are cleaned professionally to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) to optimise gel contact.
In the case of Zoom! whitening, gums and soft tissues are isolated using a protective barrier gel with a cheek retractor for comfort.
All systems will involve the use of a whitening agent that is applied in multiple 15-20 minute cycles, usually 3 to 4 times and activated by LED light or laser. The purpose is to accelerate the whitening process by releasing oxygen radicals that oxidise stain molecules.
For post application, the gel is rinsed, barriers removed, and a final shade comparison to confirm on the improvement.
This method offers immediate and dramatic results that are visible straight after treatment and are ideal for upcoming events such as a wedding. These high concentration gels achieve deeper penetration than home remedies, yielding longer lasting whiteness that are up to 1-3 years with proper maintenance.
It's conservative, non-invasive and preserves natural tooth structure without any need for any work on teeth.
Ideal candidates for whitening should have healthy teeth and gums without untreated decay, advanced periodontitis, or exposed dentine. It's suitable for adults over 16 seeking to reverse discolouration from diet, smoking, or genetics.
The procedure is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding ladies, patients with severe enamel erosion, or heavily tetracycline-stained teeth .
It is best to consult the dentist first to determine eligibility and to set realistic expectations as whitening enhances natural colour but won't match that of veneers.
Temporary tooth sensitivity can affect some patients undergoing Zoom! but unlikely, if so will normally resolves in 1-2 days. Gum irritation from gel contact is rare with barriers but may cause short term whitening or soreness.
It is best if the dental cleaning is scheduled 1-2 weeks prior to the whitening appointment. To maximise the baseline shade, it is better to avoid staining foods/drinks such as coffee, red wine, curry and tobacco for 48 hours before the whitening appointment.
For post treatment care- avoid hot, cold, acidic, or pigmented foods/drinks for 48 hours. Stick to white/soft diet (yogurt, pasta). Use sensitivity toothpaste and avoid coloured mouthwashes. Brush gently twice daily and the results will stabilise over 2 weeks.
For longevity (1-3 years)- limit stains, quit smoking if the case, and consider touch-up trays every 6-12 months.
Finally for maintainance, use whitening toothpaste daily and attend the dentist for twice a year checkup and cleaning.