23 November 2023

Light up your smile with tooth whitening

Dr Sharon Millist

A bright, white smile can do wonders for your confidence—and it’s one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments for a reason! At Renew Dental Lounge, we’re here to help you understand the ins and outs of tooth whitening, so you can make an informed choice about your smile.

Why Do Teeth Get Discoloured?

Tooth discolouration is common and can happen for different reasons. There are two main types:

Extrinsic Discolouration

This affects the outer layer of your teeth (the enamel). It’s often caused by:

  • Dark-coloured drinks like coffee, tea, or red wine
  • Smoking
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Certain mouthwashes (like chlorhexidine)

Intrinsic Discolouration

This staining happens inside the tooth and is harder to remove. Causes include:

  • Injury to a tooth
  • Ageing or genetic factors
  • Certain medications, like tetracycline antibiotics
  • Some dental treatments (e.g. root canals)

How Does Tooth Whitening Work?

Tooth whitening uses safe chemical agents—typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide—that break down staining molecules inside your teeth. These agents release oxygen, which enters the enamel and dentine, helping to break apart coloured molecules (called chromophores) and lighten your smile.

In-Office Whitening vs. At-Home Options

At Renew Dental Lounge, we offer in-office whitening treatments that deliver fast, noticeable results in a safe, controlled environment.

Over-the-counter whitening kits and beauty salon treatments are often marketed as cheaper options—but they come with serious drawbacks:

  • Low strength: Many non-dental products don’t contain enough whitening agent to achieve the results you want.
  • Risk of burns: Without professional gum protection, whitening gels can leak and burn sensitive gum tissue—causing pain and potential damage.

Teeth whitening should be performed by trained dentists. Non-professionals may be cheaper, however their lack of knowledge & training may result in harm to gums.

Even whitening toothpastes, especially abrasive charcoal-based ones, can wear down your enamel and lead to sensitivity.

Is Whitening Right for You?

Not all stains respond the same to whitening. The type of discolouration, how deep it is, and your tooth structure all influence the outcome. That’s why seeing a qualified dental professional is essential.

At Renew Dental Lounge, we tailor your treatment to your unique needs, ensuring a safe and effective experience.

Keeping Your Smile Sparkling

To maintain your white smile:

  • Avoid smoking and dark drinks like tea, coffee, and red wine
  • Brush and floss daily
  • Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleans

A Whiter Smile, A More Confident You

Tooth whitening is more than just a cosmetic treatment—it’s a confidence booster. If you’re ready to brighten your smile safely and effectively, our friendly team at Renew Dental Lounge is here to help.

Book your consultation today and let’s bring out the best in your smile.

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