How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
A brighter smile can make a powerful first impression and professional teeth whitening is one of the most effective ways to achieve it safely and quickly. If you’re considering whitening as part of your dental care, understanding the process and how to care for your teeth afterwards will help you get the best possible results.
How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
In-chair teeth whitening is a safe, controlled treatment performed by a trained professional. A 6% hydrogen peroxide gel is carefully applied to the teeth and activated by our professional LED light to lift stains and discolouration.
The entire process usually takes around 60-75 minutes, making it a convenient option for those looking for immediate results. Many patients notice a visibly brighter smile by the end of a single appointment.
Why a Professional Clean Comes First
For the best outcome, teeth whitening should always follow a professional dental clean.
A scale and polish removes built-up plaque, tartar and surface stains that can prevent the whitening gel from working evenly. Starting with a clean surface allows for a more consistent, brighter result without patchiness or uneven shades.
What to Expect After Your Treatment
It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity after whitening. This typically settles within 24-48 hours. During this time, your teeth are also more porous, meaning they can absorb colour from foods and drinks more easily.
Because of this, aftercare is essential to protect your results.
Aftercare: The First 48 Hours
The first two days after whitening are the most important. Following a “white diet” helps prevent new stains from setting in while your teeth recover.
What You Can Eat
Choose light-coloured, non-staining foods such as:
Chicken, turkey, and white fish
Rice, pasta, and plain bread
Eggs
Potatoes (without dark sauces)
Yogurt
Cheese
For drinks:
Water
Milk
What to Avoid
To maintain your results, avoid foods and drinks that are likely to stain, including:
Coffee and tea
Red wine
Dark soft drinks
Tomato-based sauces
Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
Berries
Chocolate
Beetroot
Smoking and vaping should also be avoided, as they can quickly cause discolouration.
Maintaining Your Results
Professional whitening delivers immediate results, but maintaining them comes down to good habits:
Brush twice daily and floss regularly
Rinse with water after consuming staining foods or drinks
Be mindful of frequent exposure to dark-coloured beverages
Keep up with regular dental cleans to manage surface staining