If yellowish teeth or stains are affecting your confidence, whitening treatment may be worth considering. Teeth naturally change colour and become darker with age, while day-to-day habits such as drinking coffee, tea, red wine, soft drinks, or smoking can also contribute to staining.

As the name suggests, teeth whitening aims to lighten stained or discoloured teeth.

Types of Whitening Available

At Morphett Vale Dental Care, we offer two forms of whitening treatment:

  1. At-home whitening
  • Impressions of your mouth are taken to create custom-fitted trays.
  • A week later, you’ll receive your trays and whitening gel to use at home.
  • It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions to reduce the risk of sensitivity or damage to your teeth and gums.
  1. In-chair whitening
  • Dentists are permitted to use a higher concentration of whitening gel that is applied directly to your teeth.
  • The gel is activated by light, and the procedure usually takes around an hour to an hour and a half.
  • For longer-lasting results, it is often recommended to follow up with at-home whitening.

Current research shows that whitening is best done in stages. For example, after an initial session (at-home or in-chair), repeating the treatment after about six months can help maintain results.

Before You Whiten

The health of your mouth is the most important consideration before starting whitening. Two conditions in particular need to be checked first:

  • Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis): Whitening over tartar or gum infection may cause irritation and lead to uneven results.
  • Tooth decay: If decay is present, whitening gel may leak into the cavity and cause pain or sensitivity.

That’s why it’s recommended to have a thorough dental check-up within three months before beginning whitening.

Why See a Dentist for Whitening?

Although over-the-counter products (such as strips or toothpastes) are available, dentists are best qualified to assess whether whitening is appropriate for you. They can also determine the underlying cause of discolouration and advise on the safest and most effective treatment option.

It’s important to avoid non-dental providers such as shopping centre kiosks, hairdressers, or beauty salons. These providers are not qualified to perform whitening, and incorrect use of bleaching agents can cause burns, gum injury, or uneven and disappointing results.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Whitening will not change the colour of existing crowns, veneers, or fillings.
  • Not everyone is a candidate for whitening; in some cases, alternative treatments such as veneers may be more suitable.

If you’d like to discuss whether teeth whitening is right for you, contact Morphett Vale Dental Care on (08) 8382 2410 to book an appointment.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is general in nature and should not be taken as individual medical or dental advice. Results and suitability vary from person to person. Please consult with a qualified dental professional to determine the best treatment for your situation.

Written by Dr Erika Guerra (Dentist) | AHPRA Registration Number: DEN0001411499