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FAQ
Is there a difference between in-chair whitening in a beauty salon/whitening salon and by a dental professional?
We primarily use Beyond Max for in-office whitening procedures. This formulation contains 35% hydrogen peroxide - this is 5x higher strength than the weaker whitening agents used by those in the cosmetic/beauty industries. Legally, only a qualified and registered dentist, dental hygienist or oral health therapist can use formulations higher than 6% hydrogen peroxide. Dental asstants/dental nurses, teeth whitening technicians and beauty therapists generally don't have this training, therefore can legally not use any product higher than 6% hydrogen peroxide (the same strength you can buy at a supermarket or chemist). As you might imagine, there is a vast difference in product quality, results and outcomes for the patient (and surprisingly, often for the same cost!)
Teeth whitening is only safe to do when the teeth and gums are free from decay and disease. Only a registered dental professional can determine if your teeth are healthy.
How does whitening work?
The professional whitening products we use to brighten teeth contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The peroxide diffuses through the tooth surface, breaks down into oxygen molecules to break down stains within the tooth. The stronger the peroxide content, generally, the faster and more effectively this will happen.
Which teeth whitening option is best suited for me?
The various whitening options can be confusing. We can discuss which option is best for you based on the type and severity of discoloration, sensitivity levels and any existing fillings, crowns/veneers or root canals. It is important to keep in mind that everyone's teeth respond differently based on these variables.
Whitening works best on clean teeth, so if you haven't had a professional scale and clean in the last 6 months, it is recommended that this be done first, prior to your whitening appointment.
Will my teeth be sensitive after treatment?
Following any whitening or cleaning treatment, some level of sensitivity can be expected and this differs from person to person - but most patients experience very little sensitivity, thanks to our high quality dental-professional formulations that include desensitizing agents. If sensitivity does occur, it is only temporary for a day or so. If you have existing sensitivity, it can help to use a desensitising toothpaste (e.g. Sensodyne) for a couple of weeks prior to your appointment. A special desensitising paste will also be given to you for after-care at home.
What is the difference between professional and over-the-counter whitening treatments?
In Australia, whitening agents higher than 6% hydrogen peroxide or equivalent can ONLY be used by a registered dental professional.
Over-the-counter whitening treatments include strips, toothpastes, varnishes and home kits that vary in their price and effectiveness. Whitening treatments offered at beauticians and teeth whitening salons use the same low strength whitening agents you can buy from a chemist or supermarket.
We use up to 35% hydrogen peroxide and 44% carbamide peroxide for our in-chair treatments. Careful placement, monitoring and application of a gum barrier is essential to prevent chemical trauma to the gums.
Can I have treatment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Good oral health is important, especially during pregnancy, so it is recommended to have your dental checkups and cleans during the course of your pregnancy (especially at the start of pregnancy). If you are pregnant, we encourage you to come in for an oral health screening and cleaning (and can refer you for any other treatments that may be required).
Whitening treatments are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Is teeth whitening safe?
If not carried out carefully by a trained professional, painful complications can occur. Teeth whitening is a very safe procedure, provided you are a suitable candidate with no decay, gum disease or underlying infections affecting the front teeth; only a registered dental professional (dentist/oral health therapist) can properly assess and diagnose these conditions. We ensure careful application and monitoring and only use high quality, professional products.
What results can I expect?
Each person's whitening results will vary, depending on the starting shade, type of staining (intrinsic/extrinsic), cause of discolouration, lifestyle habits etc. Some patients reach their desired shade in just one appointment, while others may require more. It is important to note that all teeth have a maximum genetic potential which varies for each individual.
Do I still need to visit my dentist?
Although The Smile Studio does provide an oral health screening and general overview of your oral health, this does not replace a comprehensive examination and diagnostic x-rays. If any issues are found in your appointment, we can recommend or refer you to a provider if you wish.
Do we accept private health insurance?
Oral health therapists / dental hygienists do not have provider numbers, therefore cannot make claims through your private health insurance or Medicare Child Dental Benefits Scheme. However, our prices are competitive and may be comparable to what you would pay out-of-pocket to a dentist depending on your level of cover.