Everyone wants a smile that they’re proud of. Unfortunately, many people aren’t naturally blessed with gleaming white teeth. For these individuals, teeth whitening is a popular way to add a sparkle to their smiles.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment in which a chemically-activated (usually hydrogen peroxide) solution is used to minimize staining or discolouration in teeth. Teeth whitening can either be performed in-house by a dental professional or at home using over-the-counter solutions available at pharmacies or salons.
In-house treatments typically involve the application of a bleaching gel to teeth, which is activated by a special light or laser. At-home solutions, meanwhile, whether whitening toothpaste, strips, or lower-concentration gels applied using mouthpiece-like trays, use a lower concentration of bleaching agent and require daily application for multiple weeks.
While professional treatments are generally considered to be the most effective and long-lasting, home solutions can also offer good results.
Why Do Teeth Become Discoloured?
There are a variety of reasons why a person’s teeth become discoloured. The most common are:
Tobacco
Certain food (beets and red berries, for instance) and beverages (tea, coffee, red wine)
Excessive sugar consumption
Poor dental hygiene
Aging
Genetics
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
A number of factors can affect the cost of teeth whitening:
Type of Treatment – different types of teeth whitening treatments are available, with in-office whitening tending to be pricier than at-home treatments.
Severity of Discolouration – the severity of the discolouration of teeth can impact the cost of whitening, as heavier discolouration may require more intense treatment.
Location – the cost of teeth whitening can vary depending on location; treatments performed in urban areas tend to be pricier than those performed in rural areas.
As always, it’s important to consult with a dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment to determine the solution best suited to your individual needs and budget.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Garran, ACT
If you’re in the Garran and Canberra area and would like to find out about teeth whitening costs and options, dentist Dr Eric Kropinak and the team at Telopea Park Dental are available for a consultation.