What to Expect During Your Teeth Whitening Appointment
At Gerringong Dental, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout the teeth whitening process. Our professional treatment follows a step-by-step approach to deliver noticeable results with minimal discomfort.
Your journey to a whiter smile starts with a detailed consultation. Our dental team will assess your oral health to determine whether you are a good candidate for whitening. We examine your teeth and gums, identify the extent of discoloration, and discuss your expectations for brightness. During this session, we also explain the available whitening options and answer any questions to ensure you feel informed and confident about the procedure.
To maximize whitening effectiveness, your teeth must be free from plaque, tartar, and surface stains. If needed, we may recommend a professional cleaning before beginning the procedure. Once your teeth are prepared, we place a protective barrier over your gums and lips to prevent irritation. You’ll also receive protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the LED light used during the treatment. Before starting, we take photographs to document your original tooth shade, which allows us to track your progress.
After preparation, we apply a high-quality whitening gel containing safe but powerful bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, directly to your teeth. To enhance its effectiveness, an LED light is used to accelerate the breakdown of deep stains. Each session lasts approximately 15-20 minutes, and depending on the level of discoloration, we may repeat the process 2-3 times in one visit. By the end of the treatment, you will notice a significantly brighter smile.
Once we achieve the desired shade, we thoroughly rinse your mouth to remove any remaining gel. Some individuals may experience slight sensitivity, so we apply a fluoride or desensitizing treatment to reduce discomfort. Finally, we compare your before-and-after photos, allowing you to see the remarkable improvement in your smile—often up to 6-8 shades brighter in just one session!
To maintain your newly brightened teeth, we provide personalized aftercare instructions. For the first 48 hours, we recommend avoiding foods and drinks that can stain, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries. Using a straw for darker beverages can help prevent staining. Additionally, brushing with a whitening toothpaste and flossing daily will help prolong your results. We may also suggest periodic touch-up treatments to keep your smile looking fresh.
To help you maintain long-lasting results, we offer take-home whitening kits for easy touch-ups. Additionally, in-office maintenance treatments are available every 6-12 months, depending on your lifestyle and dietary choices. With proper care, your whiter smile can last for years.
At Gerringong Dental, we are dedicated to providing safe and effective whitening treatments tailored to your needs. Ready to brighten your smile? Book your appointment today and enjoy the confidence of a radiant, healthy smile!