Oral Health First
Decay, cracks, gum inflammation, recession or sensitivity may require attention before whitening is considered
Tooth Whitening
Teeth Whitening Begins With a Dental Assessment
Teeth whitening may lighten natural tooth colour, but results vary. Before treatment, the dentist will assess the type of discolouration, oral health, sensitivity risk and any existing fillings, crowns or veneers.
Book a whitening consultation if tooth colour is your main concern. If you have toothache, gum problems or new sensitivity, book a dental assessment first.
Tooth Whitening appointment details
Useful for
Patients asking about tooth colour, staining, whitening suitability, sensitivity, shade matching, or whitening before bonding, veneers, or crowns
Costs
Assessment, whitening pathway, sensitivity needs, review visits, and health fund rules can affect fees; itemised costs are discussed first
RISKS & LIMITATIONS
Possible risks, limitations, expected maintenance requirements, and the potential need for additional care are discussed where relevant before treatment begins.
Considering Whitening
When Teeth Whitening May Be Worth Discussing
We check your teeth and gums, the type of staining, sensitivity and any visible dental work before discussing whitening. That helps set realistic expectations around shade, sensitivity and whether other treatment should happen first.
Start here if
- 01Your teeth appear darker or more stained than before, and the possible cause is unclear.
- 02You have questions about sensitivity, shade variation or whether whitening may be suitable.
- 03You have fillings, crowns, veneers or bonding that could affect colour matching.
- 04You want to compare whitening with other cosmetic options before making a decision.
Whitening Considerations
Factors That May Affect Teeth Whitening
Whitening affects natural tooth structure and may not be suitable for every type of discolouration. Existing restorations do not whiten, and individual outcomes can vary.
Assessment
Preparing for Teeth Whitening Treatment
Before whitening is recommended, the dentist considers oral health, existing dental work and sensitivity risk. Suitable options, limitations, timing and costs can then be discussed.
Teeth and sensitivity
Teeth are checked for decay, cracks, wear, enamel changes, exposed dentine, and sensitivity triggers before whitening is discussed.
Gums and oral health
Gum inflammation, recession and other soft-tissue concerns may need attention before treatment.
Existing dental work
The location and shade of fillings, crowns, veneers and bonding are considered because they will not whiten.
Options, Limitations and Costs
Available methods, possible risks, expected limitations, maintenance, timing and fees are explained before treatment.
Your Appointment
What happens at your appointment
Your dentist will assess suitability, explain the available whitening approach, discuss sensitivity and maintenance, and make sure you understand how existing restorations may affect the final shade.
Discuss the Changes You Have Noticed
The dentist will ask about changes in tooth colour, staining, sensitivity and any existing or planned dental treatment.
Assess Oral Health and Suitability
The teeth, gums, existing restorations, type of discolouration and sensitivity risk are assessed. Radiographs or other care may be recommended where clinically indicated.
Explain Options, Limitations and Costs
The dentist will explain suitable whitening options, sensitivity risks, shade limitations, maintenance, timing and itemised costs before treatment.
Maintenance
Caring for Your Teeth After Whitening
Tooth colour can change over time. Diet, smoking, oral hygiene, ageing and new staining may affect how long the change remains noticeable. Follow the maintenance advice provided for the whitening method used.
- Continue daily oral hygiene and attend dental visits at intervals recommended for individual oral health needs.
- Following in-chair whitening, temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation may occur. Contact the practice if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Fillings, crowns, veneers and bonding do not whiten. Any noticeable shade differences can be assessed before further treatment is considered.
Related Care
What to Consider Alongside Whitening
Whitening may need to be planned around oral health, sensitivity and existing restorations. An assessment can help determine whether whitening is appropriate and what limitations may apply.
Fees, Health Funds, Payment Options
Helpful
FAQs
Questions About Tooth Whitening
Answers to common questions about whitening suitability, dental checks, sensitivity, restorations, shade matching, costs, maintenance, and cosmetic planning.
Temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation may occur after treatment. Follow the instructions provided by the dentist and contact the practice if symptoms persist, worsen or cause concern.
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