Gentle Dental – Your Teeth Whitening Dentist
What Is Tooth Whitening and How Does It Work?
Tooth whitening is one of the fastest and most effective ways to brighten your smile. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or just want to refresh your look, a qualified teeth whitening dentist can help lift years of stains in as little as one appointment.
But with so many options — from in-chair sessions to online kits and even bicarb soda — it’s important to know what actually works, what’s safe, and what gives you long-lasting results.
How Does Tooth Whitening Work?
Whitening treatments use active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stain-causing molecules in the enamel. These bleaching agents work below the surface of the tooth to lift internal and external discolouration, making your teeth appear whiter and brighter.
They won’t affect crowns, fillings, or veneers — only natural tooth enamel.
In-Chair Whitening vs At-Home Whitening: What’s the Difference?
At Gentle Dental Centre, we offer both options — and both are professionally supervised by a teeth whitening dentist team for safety and results:
In-Chair Whitening
This is ideal if you want instant results. The Philips Zoom system is applied in our clinic using a professional-grade gel activated by LED light. In just one session, your smile can be several shades whiter.
Take-Home Whitening Kits
A more gradual option, this includes custom-made trays and professional-strength gel that you apply at home over 1–2 weeks. Great for those who prefer to whiten at their own pace or have concerns about sensitivity.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Teeth whitening cost does tend to come down to how the treatment is delivered, the type of product used, and whether it’s performed by a qualified teeth whitening dentist. In-chair whitening typically has a higher upfront cost but delivers faster, more dramatic results, while take-home kits are more affordable and offer gradual improvements over time. Ultimately, the best value comes from choosing a treatment that’s safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs.
We offer two high-quality whitening options:
Philips Zoom In-Chair Whitening Package – $800
Includes:
- Pre-whitening polish
- In-chair whitening treatment
- Take-home kit with custom trays, whitening gel, and desensitiser
- Fast, noticeable results with professional-grade protection
Take-Home Whitening Kit – $299
Includes:
- Custom-fitted trays made just for your teeth
- Professional-strength whitening gel (stronger than chemist brands)
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Gradual, safe results with minimal sensitivity
Our teeth whitening dentist team will walk you through both options to help you choose the best approach for your goals and lifestyle.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes — when supervised by a qualified teeth whitening dentist, professional whitening is safe and effective. The products we use are regulated, enamel-safe, and designed to minimise sensitivity. We always check your teeth and gums beforehand to ensure whitening is appropriate for you.
DIY or non-dental treatments may skip this essential step — which can lead to problems if you have untreated decay or gum issues.
Does Teeth Whitening Hurt?
Some people experience temporary sensitivity during or after whitening, but it’s usually short-lived. We use protective gels, desensitisers, and proper techniques to keep you comfortable. If you have a history of sensitive teeth, we’ll tailor the treatment to minimise discomfort. We also can numb the teeth so the experience is completely pain free!
Can Yellow Teeth Be White Again?
In most cases, yes. Yellow or stained teeth from ageing, coffee, tea, wine or smoking often respond very well to whitening treatments. If your discolouration is caused by trauma, medication or internal staining, your dentist can recommend alternatives like veneers or cosmetic bonding.
How Often Can You Whiten Your Teeth?
We recommend whitening no more than once every 12 to 24 months, depending on your lifestyle and results. Over-whitening can weaken enamel and increase sensitivity. Your dentist will guide you on how to maintain your results safely with top-ups or maintenance products.
Do Whitening Toothpastes or Supermarket Kits Work?
Whitening toothpastes can remove surface stains but won’t change the internal colour of your teeth. Chemist kits and online strips often contain low concentrations of whitening agents, leading to limited or patchy results.
For safe, noticeable improvement, professional options, especially those overseen by a teeth whitening dentist expert remain the most effective.
Can I Use Bicarb Soda to Whiten My Teeth?
Bicarbonate of soda may help remove some surface stains, but it doesn’t actually whiten teeth. It’s also abrasive — overuse can wear down enamel and lead to sensitivity. It’s best used occasionally and under your dentist’s guidance, not as a primary whitening method.
What About Those LED Whitening Lights I See Online?
Most battery-powered or social media LED whitening kits lack the power to properly activate whitening agents. The lights themselves don’t whiten teeth — and the accompanying gel is often too weak to produce real results. For true whitening, professional-grade products and equipment are required.
How Can I Maintain My Whitening Results?
To keep your smile bright:
- Avoid coffee, red wine, dark sauces, and tobacco
- Brush and floss daily
- Use a straw for coloured drinks
- Use your take-home kit for touch-ups as needed
- Schedule regular check-ups and cleans
Your dentist will provide personalised aftercare to help extend your results.
Why Choose a Dentist for Teeth Whitening?
Only a qualified teeth whitening dentist can:
- Ensure your teeth are healthy before whitening
- Provide stronger, longer-lasting results
- Offer customised treatment for your enamel and sensitivity levels
- Manage side effects safely
- Tailor a plan to your long-term goals
Plus, professional whitening offers better value — with results that actually last.
Ready to Whiten Your Smile?
Whether you want fast, dramatic results or a more flexible approach from home, our team at Gentle Dental Centre will help you whiten safely, effectively, and with confidence.
Book your whitening consultation today and take the first step toward a brighter smile.
