When it comes to teeth, whiter is definitely better. There are plenty of ways to reduce staining and prevent teeth yellowing by avoiding smoking, using special toothpaste, or adopting a diet that doesn’t stain your teeth, but for many once the stains are there it’s very difficult to get rid of them.
This is why teeth whitening is probably one of the most in demand cosmetic dental procedures in Sydney – that morning coffee isn’t doing anyone’s teeth any favours! A simple one hour session can whiten your teeth by up to 10 shades!
When it comes to cosmetic dentistry – and especially teeth whitening – you can always trust Dr. Michael Tam and his team at Smile by design for all your cosmetic dentistry needs.
What are the types of teeth whitening?
There are 4 main types of teeth whitening, one is a take home teeth whitening kit, and the other 3 are professional teeth whitening methods done by a cosmetic dentist.
Home teeth whitening kits:
Often a first resort for removing stains on teeth, Home whitening is the simplest form of teeth whitening. All you have to do is apply the teeth whitening gel into a custom made tray that fits your teeth perfectly, and repeat the process daily for about 2 weeks, or until you achieve the result that you desire.
The only problem with home whitening is that it takes an awful lot of time to begin showing results, so if you’re looking for a faster solution to whiten your teeth, then consider the following types of in-chair teeth whitening.
Professional teeth whitening services:
All professional teeth whitening techniques are similar, but they differ in the mode of activation of the whitening solution.
These differences in activation lead to varying results – anywhere from 3 to 10 shades depending on the method – and require skilled cosmetic dentists to carry out.
Chemical teeth whitening:
With this approach, the whitening chemical is activated by mixing it with another chemical, starting a cascade of reactions that can remove the stains and brighten your smile. This is the safest professional teeth whitening method available, but is also very limited. The most you can get out of chemical whitening is about 3 to 4 shades.
UV light whitening:
The most commonly used method of cosmetic teeth whitening, and rightfully so since it is very effective. The whitening chemical is activated by subjecting it to a strong source of UV light. This method can give you up to 10 shades whiter, and with very mild and easily controlled sensitivity to be expected.
Laser Whitening:
A fairly new technique, where a professional dental laser is used to activate the whitening chemical. This is by far the most effective and time saving method, where you can get 10 shades or more of whitening in just under 10 minutes. It can cause a lot of sensitivity though, and must be used at the hands of a very skilled professional.
Where can I get my teeth whitened in Sydney?
If you are looking to have your teeth whitened and your smile brightened, schedule a visit to Smile By Design. Dr. Michael Tam has assembled a team of some of the best cosmetic dentists teams in Sydney for his Bondi Junction & North Sydney clinics.
Give us a call at (02) 9389 3333 or (02) 9460 3566 or visit smilebydesign.com.au to schedule your consultation and begin your journey towards a great smile.
About Dr. Michael Tam
Dr. Michael Tam BDS (NZ) Grad Dip Clin Dent (Oral Implants) (Syd) has over 25 years experience in the dental field and with a special interest in Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, he obtained a Distinction Award from the NZDA in Continuing Dental Education and has met with dental practices in London, Europe, Asia, America and Canada.
He is a graduate of the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and a previous member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Seattle Study Club.
Dr Tam is committed to advancing and furthering his knowledge and skills in the area of dentistry that he is passionate about – Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, and Complex Reconstructive Dentistry in Australia, NZ and overseas.