Professional Teeth Whitening in St Kilda, Melbourne

The results of the whitening procedure of your teeth will depend on the present condition of your teeth. The current state of your teeth, genetics and stains all affect the results of the whitening treatment session. For most patients, the teeth are 7-10 shades lighter after the treatment, while in a small percentage of people it can go as high as 10-15 shades. Please be aware that these are only generalised results based on the treatment of a cross-section of patients. As the tooth condition varies greatly between different patients, the results of whitening may also differ. Check with your dentist for a qualified opinion.

After getting your teeth whitened, you should avoid these foods:

1. 1. Acidic foods: Avoid foods such as citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, pineapples, tomatoes, pickled or food with pickle ingredients and processed meats.
   2. Dark-coloured beverages: Do not drink tea, coffee, sodas, or grape juice. These drinks are the primary reason for stains and yellowing of your teeth. If you cannot avoid or resist such drinks, it is best to use a straw and rinse your mouth immediately afterwards to minimise the damage.

It depends from person to person. Generally, it may vary from 2-3 years for a person who takes all precautions and the dentist’s advice, to as little as 6 months for a person who does not follow them. The teeth whitening lasts the lowest if you expose your teeth to acidic food, dark-coloured beverages, smoking and stain-causing food.

Your teeth are the most sensitive for a few days after a whitening procedure, so it’s best to avoid foods and beverages that contain artificial dyes or natural pigments. This can include foods and drinks, such as coffee, wine, tea, dark fruits, turmeric, soft drinks, candy,  chocolate, etc.

With what not to eat out of the way, opt for white-coloured foods and low-acid foods that are free of enamel-staining pigments. Good options include fish, chicken, rice, bread, pasta, tofu, white cheese, yoghurt, bananas, apples, potatoes, mushrooms, cauliflower, etc. Sticking to these foods for at least 48 hours can help maintain positive whitening results.

Yes, teeth whitening is generally considered safe when performed by a dental professional or when using over-the-counter products as directed. That being said, some people may experience temporary sensitivity due to the chemicals used in the procedure, especially if they’ve sensitive teeth. This occurs because the whitening agents penetrate the enamel to remove stains, which can expose the dentin layer.

Sensitivity usually diminishes within a few days. To minimise discomfort, you can avoid extremely hot or cold foods, as they may agitate the affected area even more. Plus, it’s advised to consult a professional before trying any whitening kits at home.

Chemicals found in cigarettes, like tar and nicotine, are primarily the cause of stains on teeth. They seep into the tooth enamel, leaving behind brown or yellow discolouration. Professional teeth cleaning is an effective way to remove cigarette stains. In addition to whitening, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing regularly, can help prevent future staining.