Teeth
Whitening
NZ FAQ
Teeth Whitening – NZ FAQ
How effective are teeth whiteners?
This is a great article. And it’s from Consumer NZ so you can trust it!
Is teeth whitening safe?
When used as directed, Solid Teeth Whitening is a safe way to whiten your teeth. The active ingredient used, hydrogen peroxide, has been well studied at a range of concentrations. Some people may experience mild and temporary tooth sensitivity. If the gel gets on your gums, wipe it off to avoid irritation. Check with your dentist if you have any concerns regarding your specific teeth.
How does the Solid Teeth Whitening kit work?
Solid Teeth Whitening uses a safe bleaching agent (hydrogen peroxide at a 6.9% concentration). This ingredient penetrates the enamel and breaks down stains and discolouration, helping to whiten the teeth and restore their natural colour.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Your whitening results depends on factors such as your oral hygiene habits, diet, and lifestyle choices. Teeth whitening effects can last anywhere from several months to a couple of years. Touch-up treatments every few months can help maintain the results for a longer time.
How old do you need to be to whiten your teeth?
Teeth whitening is generally safe for adults and teenagers over 16. It’s not suitable for kids.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
People with sensitive teeth can still use Solid Teeth Whitening – with extra care. Please check with your dentist first if you have particularly sensitive teeth. Using a sensitive toothpaste can help minimise sensitivity. You can also whiten your teeth on alternate days, rather than 14 days in a row. Give your teeth a rest for a few days if you notice increased sensitivity.
Can I undergo teeth whitening if I need fillings or other dental work?
We recommend seeing your dentist and having any essential dental work completed BEFORE whitening your teeth.
How can I maintain my teeth whitening results?
To keep your teeth as white as possible, brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Visit your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Avoid staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, soy sauce and red wine. Or use a (reuseable) straw when you drink these. When consumed frequently, acidic foods and drinks can make teeth appear more yellow due to thinning of the outer enamel layer . It’s best to avoid these as much as possible and/or and drink water afterwards.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding women undergo teeth whitening?
It’s generally recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid teeth whitening treatments. This is mainly because there’s just not enough research out there to prove that it’s safe.
Can I use Solid Teeth Whitening gel in my existing whitening trays?
Yes, you can 😁
Can natural remedies whiten teeth?
Some natural remedies like baking soda, activated charcoal, or oil pulling have been suggested to have teeth whitening effects. However, their efficacy is not scientifically proven, and their use may cause new dental issues.
Does teeth whitening work on all types of stains?
Teeth whitening is most effective against stains caused by external factors like food, beverages, or tobacco use. It may not be as effective against stains that originate from deep within the tooth, or discolouration that was already there when the tooth erupted (such as tetracycline staining). In such cases, alternative cosmetic dental treatments like veneers or bonding may be recommended. You’ll find that the more frequently you whiten your teeth, the quicker new stains will disappear.