A bright, white smile can significantly boost your confidence. As someone who specializes in high-end aesthetic dentistry, I'm often asked about the best approaches to teeth whitening. Let me share what you need to know.
Professional vs. Over-the-Counter
While drugstore whitening products are convenient, professional whitening offers several advantages:
- Stronger Formulations: Professional-grade whitening agents are more effective
- Customized Treatment: We tailor the process to your specific needs and sensitivity
- Safety Monitoring: Professional supervision ensures your gums and enamel are protected
- Faster Results: Achieve your desired shade in significantly less time
- Even Results: Professional application ensures uniform whitening
The Consultation Process
At our practice, teeth whitening begins with a complimentary consultation. This is an important step because:
- We assess whether you're a good candidate for whitening
- We identify any dental work that may not whiten (crowns, veneers, fillings)
- We discuss realistic expectations based on your current tooth shade
- We check for any underlying issues that should be addressed first
You only pay for the treatment if you decide to proceed after the consultation.
What to Expect During Treatment
Professional whitening at our practice typically takes about 20 minutes. Here's the process:
- We protect your gums and soft tissues
- Apply professional-grade whitening gel to your teeth
- Activate the gel (method depends on the system used)
- Monitor the process to ensure optimal results
- Remove the gel and assess the new shade
Maintaining Your Results
To keep your smile bright:
- Avoid staining foods and drinks for 48 hours post-treatment
- Use a straw for colored beverages when possible
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Consider touch-up treatments as needed (typically every 6-12 months)
- Regular professional cleanings help maintain your shade
Who Should Avoid Whitening?
Whitening may not be suitable if you:
- Have severe tooth sensitivity
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Have significant tooth decay or gum disease (treat these first)
- Have very thin enamel
- Have many visible restorations that won't match the whitened teeth
The Investment
Professional teeth whitening at our practice is R9,200. While this is more than over-the-counter options, the results are dramatically better and longer-lasting. When you consider the cost per use over the months your results last, it's an excellent investment in your appearance and confidence.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to explore teeth whitening? Schedule your complimentary consultation at our Sandown practice. We'll assess your teeth, discuss your goals, and create a personalized whitening plan that delivers the beautiful, natural-looking results you want.