Tobacco, coffee, tea, alcohol, food additives, some developmental blemishes and natural aging all contribute to the discolouring and yellowing of teeth.

While a professional dental clean can remove some staining, teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that can provide patients with great results that whiten the colour of teeth that have discoloured over time.

There are two options for teeth whitening procedures.

• At-home whitening- typically, whitening procedures are carried out at home by the patient following a consultation with a dentist.
• Professional whitening- in some circumstances, whitening procedures are provided in the dental chair by your dentist using ultraviolet light.

Professional whitening procedures are provided in the dental chair by your dentist. Teeth whitening gel is placed on the teeth and the whitening process is activated by the use of a clinically proven ultraviolet light.

Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to prepare a custom-made ultra-thin mouth tray. The tray is used to hold the bleaching gel close to the teeth. The whitening gel is placed in the tray which is then worn for up to 2 hours a day. Results are usually seen within two weeks. Your dentist will advise you on how long to wear the tray both initially and for maintenance.

Teeth whitening may not be appropriate for all patients, so before commencing any whitening procedure it is best to discuss expected outcomes and time frames with a dentist.

Teeth whitening, if maintained correctly, can leave patients with results that last. Your dentist will advise you on the maintenance and longevity of your whitening.

The cost of teeth whitening will vary depending on the type of procedure your dentist recommends. Your Dentist will be able to provide you with a cost estimate prior to any treatment.