So, it’s time to take a closer look at the exciting world of teeth whitening.

The quest for the perfect smile

Teeth whitening is a dental process that whitens the colour of your teeth. It’s used to target teeth that appear dark or discoloured, whether that be from staining or another underlying cause. And while plenty of DIY teeth whitening kits are on the market, it’s preferable to consult your dental professional before trying anything yourself so that you’re aware of any risk factors.

Unveiling the culprits of teeth stains

Before we jump into the teeth whitening magic, let’s uncover the mischievous villains behind those stubborn stains. These stains or discolouration can come from anywhere, but there are a few common denominators. These include coffee, tea, red wine, and even certain fruits that sneakily leave their mark on our teeth. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, some medications, and ageing can also contribute to discolouration. Intense colour pigments of these drinks are called chromogens. These chromogens attach to the white tooth enamel causing it to appear darker.

However, while tooth discolouration often comes from staining, other causes, such as tooth injury, can cause the affected tooth to become darker over time. At Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic, our team of professionals work to understand the root causes and empowers us to combat them effectively.

The benefits of professional teeth whitening

Aside from the obvious aesthetic benefits, teeth whitening goes beyond just enhancing your appearance. It boosts your self-confidence, making you feel more comfortable in social situations and professional settings. A whiter smile can also make you appear younger and more vibrant.

Some other benefits of seeing a dental professional for teeth whitening include: 

• Diagnosing the cause of discolouration and any other oral problems
• Checking if teeth whitening is a suitable option for you
• Offering you a range of teeth whitening options, including custom home-whitening trays
• Tailoring a plan to your needs

When you choose Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic, you’ll get a take-home tooth whitening kit to use in the comfort of your own home! It may seem daunting, but the benefits of your own teeth-whitening kit include:

• Custom-fitted mouth trays made from impressions taken by your dentist. These ensure maximum contact with the whitening product to optimise results.
• Custom-fitted mouth trays minimise contact of the gel with the gum tissue.
• The whitening product is milder than products used in dental surgeries, leading to less sensitivity.
• You have more control over the shade of white you achieve.
• Take-home teeth whitening is more affordable than in-chair teeth whitening performed in dental surgeries.

Are there any risks or considerations when whitening your teeth?

Like with anything, care must be taken when it comes to teeth whitening. Often, the ingredient in your teeth whitening treatment is a strong hydrogen peroxide gel. This substance can cause chemical burns if it goes on the surface of the soft tissues (such as the lips, gums and tongue). These burns can turn into ulcers before healing. 

Whitening your teeth can also cause the teeth to become more sensitive to things like cold temperatures and foods. If teeth whitening gels are used incorrectly, the sensitivity can be extremely severe to the point where even breathing can be painful on your teeth. Seeing a dentist before undergoing any treatment is essential. 

Can I whiten my teeth while I’m pregnant or breastfeeding? 

While there isn’t any evidence that teeth whitening is dangerous for pregnant or breastfeeding women, there’s also no evidence to suggest that it’s safe. Therefore, it’s recommended to avoid it. If you’d like to have your teeth whitened, speak with your dentist, who may be able to offer alternatives.

Can I whiten my porcelain crowns or veneers and white fillings? 

Teeth whitening gel is made to lighten the colour of your tooth enamel, meaning that it won’t change the colour of porcelain crowns, veneers, or composite resin (white) fillings. If you choose to whiten your teeth and they no longer match in colour, your dentist may need to replace them.

Can I DIY my own teeth whitening or use a teeth whitening kit from the supermarket?

There is plenty of information – and even more misinformation – online about at-home teeth whitening methods. Some suggest that baking soda mixed with water creates a teeth whitening paste you can brush with. Baking soda is a mild abrasive and can help to manage light stains on the outside surface of your teeth, but can also cause wear to your teeth. However, brushing with baking soda will not affect the deeper staining of the tooth. This method is not recommended as part of your regular brushing routine.

Teeth whitening kits are available at various supermarkets and pharmacies for purchase. However, as with the baking soda paste, there are risks associated with these treatments, and they are best done under the supervision of a dental professional.

Maintaining your bright smile

Once the whitening process is complete, it’s time to keep that radiant smile shining bright! Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, are essential. Avoiding stain-causing habits and scheduling routine dental check-ups will ensure your smile stays as vibrant as ever. 

A bright, white smile is just a dental visit away! At Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic, our expertise and friendly team will make your teeth whitening experience a breeze. So, don’t hesitate to reach out and let us work our magic on your pearly whites. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional dental advice. Consult your dentist for personalised recommendations and treatments.

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