Teeth Whitening Sydney: Professional Services Available at Beecroft
We offer professional teeth whitening services using the renowned Philips Zoom system. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you achieve a brighter, more confident smile through safe and effective whitening treatments.
How Teeth Become Discoloured
Teeth discolouration is a common concern for many individuals. Several factors contribute to the dulling and staining of teeth over time:
- Age: As we grow older, the enamel naturally thins, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath.
- Diet: Consuming dark-coloured foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries can stain teeth.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco products can lead to significant tooth discolouration.
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow stains to accumulate on teeth.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics and other medications can cause tooth discolouration as a side effect.
- Genetics: Some people are naturally predisposed to having yellower or darker teeth.
Types of Teeth Staining
Understanding the type of staining affecting your teeth is crucial for determining the most effective whitening treatment. There are two main categories of teeth staining:
Extrinsic Staining
Extrinsic stains occur on the outer layer of the tooth (enamel) and are typically caused by external factors such as:
- Food and drink (coffee, tea, red wine)
- Tobacco use
- Poor oral hygiene
These stains are generally easier to remove and respond well to professional teeth whitening treatments.
Intrinsic Staining
Intrinsic stains develop within the tooth structure and are often more challenging to treat. Causes of intrinsic staining include:
- Excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development
- Certain medications (e.g., tetracycline antibiotics)
- Trauma to the tooth
- Ageing
While intrinsic stains can be more stubborn, professional teeth whitening treatments like Philips Zoom can still provide significant improvement in many cases.
The In-Office Teeth Whitening Treatment
At Beecroft Smiles Dental Surgery, we use the Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed system for in-office teeth whitening. This advanced treatment can whiten your teeth by up to 8 shades in a single session. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:
- Preparation: Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough for whitening. A shade guide will be used to determine your starting tooth colour.
- Protection: Your lips and gums will be carefully covered to protect them from the whitening gel.
- Gel application: The Philips Zoom whitening gel, containing hydrogen peroxide, will be applied to your teeth.
- Light activation: The Zoom WhiteSpeed blue LED light will be positioned over your teeth to activate the gel and accelerate the whitening process.
- Treatment cycles: The gel is applied in three 15-minute sessions, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes.
- Final steps: After the last cycle, a sensitivity-reducing fluoride gel is applied to your teeth. Your dentist will assess the final shade and provide aftercare instructions.
The Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening offers numerous benefits:
- Improved appearance: A brighter smile can significantly enhance your overall look.
- Increased confidence: Whiter teeth often lead to greater self-assurance in social and professional settings.
- Non-invasive treatment: Unlike other cosmetic dental procedures, teeth whitening is non-invasive and preserves your natural tooth structure.
- Quick results: In-office treatments provide dramatic results in just one appointment.
- Long-lasting effects: With proper care, the results of professional whitening can last for several months to a year.
- Customised treatment: Professional whitening allows for tailored treatment based on your specific needs and goals.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
While over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products are widely available, professional teeth whitening offers several advantages:
Professional Teeth Whitening
- Stronger whitening agents for more dramatic results
- Customised treatment plans
- Supervised by dental professionals for safety and efficacy
- Faster results (often in a single appointment)
- Even and consistent whitening across all teeth
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
- Lower cost
- Convenient for at-home use
- Less powerful whitening agents
- Results may take longer to achieve
- Potential for uneven whitening or sensitivity if not used correctly
While OTC products can be effective for mild staining, professional treatments like Philips Zoom offer superior results, especially for moderate to severe discolouration.
Pricing Options
At Beecroft Smiles Dental Surgery, we offer flexible pricing options to suit various needs and budgets:
- Basic Package: $599
- In-office Philips Zoom treatment
- Take-home touch-up kit
- Premium Package: $699
- In-office Philips Zoom treatment
- Take-home touch-up kit
- Custom-fitted whitening trays
- Ultimate Package: $899
- In-office Philips Zoom treatment
- Take-home touch-up kit
- Custom-fitted whitening trays
- 12-month whitening maintenance plan
Am I a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Most people with healthy teeth and gums are suitable candidates for teeth whitening. However, it’s essential to consult with our dental professionals to determine if teeth whitening is right for you. Factors that may affect your candidacy include:
- Existing dental work (e.g., crowns, veneers)
- Sensitive teeth or gums
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Age (whitening is not recommended for children under 16)
- Severe tooth decay or gum disease
Want Whiter Teeth?
If you’re interested in achieving a brighter smile, we encourage you to book a consultation at Beecroft Smiles Dental Surgery. Our experienced team will assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable whitening treatment for you.
What Do I Do If Professional Whitening Won't Remove the Stains on My Teeth?
In some cases, particularly with intrinsic staining or severe discolouration, professional whitening may not achieve the desired results. In these situations, we may recommend alternative cosmetic treatments such as:
- Dental veneers
- Dental bonding
- Crowns
These options can provide a more dramatic transformation for teeth that are resistant to whitening treatments.
What Causes Teeth to Stain?
Understanding the causes of tooth staining can help you maintain your bright smile after whitening. Common culprits include:
- Dark-coloured beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and cola
- Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits, sports drinks, and certain sauces
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing
- Certain medications: Tetracycline antibiotics, antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications
- Ageing: Natural thinning of enamel over time
- Genetics: Some people are predisposed to darker or more easily stained teeth
By being mindful of these factors and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help prolong the effects of your teeth whitening treatment.
FAQs: Teeth Whitening
How long does the Philips Zoom Teeth Whitening treatment take?
The Philips Zoom in-office teeth whitening treatment typically takes about 45 minutes to complete. Here are the key details:
- The treatment consists of three 15-minute sessions, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes.
- During each 15-minute session, the whitening gel is applied to the teeth and activated with the Zoom blue LED light.
- The entire in-office procedure, including preparation and aftercare, usually lasts 60-90 minutes total.
- For more severe discoloration, the treatment may take up to 90 minutes, with additional gel applications.
- Philips claims their in-office Zoom treatment can whiten teeth up to 8 shades in this 45-minute timeframe.
This makes Philips Zoom one of the faster professional in-office whitening options available. The quick treatment time is one of the key advantages of choosing Zoom over other whitening methods that may require multiple appointments or longer application times.
Is Philips Zoom Teeth Whitening safe for sensitive teeth?
Philips Zoom teeth whitening can be safe for people with sensitive teeth when used properly under professional supervision. Here are some key points regarding its safety for sensitive teeth:
- Zoom is formulated with relief ACP (amorphous calcium phosphate), which helps protect enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- The treatment has no adverse effects on existing dental work like fillings or crowns.
- Dentists can adjust the Zoom WhiteSpeed lamp settings (high, medium, low) during treatment to manage sensitivity.
- A fluoride gel may be applied after treatment to minimize temporary sensitivity.
- Some temporary increased sensitivity is normal for 1-3 days after treatment, but this is typically mild and short-lived.
- Pre-treatment protocols can help reduce sensitivity, such as using potassium nitrate toothpaste a week before and applying relief ACP gel just before the procedure.
- Your dentist can provide customized advice and treatment plans based on your level of tooth sensitivity.
- Take-home options are available for those with very sensitive teeth who prefer a more gradual approach.
While Zoom whitening is generally considered safe for sensitive teeth, it’s crucial to consult with your dentist before undergoing any whitening treatment. They can assess your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate whitening method for your needs, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.
Does Philips Zoom teeth whitening work?
Yes, Philips Zoom teeth whitening is highly effective. Clinical studies have shown that Zoom can whiten teeth up to 8 shades in a single 45-minute in-office treatment. The professional-grade hydrogen peroxide gel, activated by the Zoom LED light, penetrates the enamel to break down stains and discoloration. Most patients see noticeable results immediately after treatment.
How long does Philips Zoom teeth whitening last?
The results of Philips Zoom teeth whitening typically last 12-18 months, though this can vary depending on lifestyle factors. To maintain your whiter smile longer:
- Avoid staining foods/drinks for 48 hours after treatment
- Use whitening toothpaste
- Get periodic touch-ups with take-home whitening trays
- Practice good oral hygiene
With proper care, many patients enjoy their whiter smile for a year or more before needing a touch-up treatment.
How much does Philips Zoom whitening cost?
The cost of Philips Zoom whitening varies by dental practice, but typically ranges from £299 to £499 for in-office treatment. Many dentists offer package options that may include:
- In-office Zoom treatment
- Take-home touch-up kit
- Custom whitening trays
- Maintenance plan
It’s best to consult your dentist for specific pricing, as costs can differ based on location and individual needs.
Is Philips Zoom whitening painful?
Philips Zoom whitening is generally not painful, but some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after treatment. The Zoom system is designed to minimize sensitivity:
- It contains ACP (amorphous calcium phosphate) to help reduce sensitivity
- The LED light has adjustable intensity settings
- Dentists can apply desensitizing gel before/after treatment
Most sensitivity, if experienced, is mild and subsides within 1-3 days. Using desensitizing toothpaste before treatment can also help reduce potential discomfort