How To Whiten Teeth: Your Ultimate Guide on Teeth Whitening!

These days, feeling beautiful can be anything – waking up after 8 hours of majestic sleep, flaunting a full head-to-toe look that best expresses your style, receiving some love and appreciation from a loved one.

Another one in our list of top feel-good hacks? Pearly white teeth! Yup, there’s nothing quite like a confident smile that radiates beauty from the inside out.

For many of us, though, a common culprit keeps us from flashing that picture-perfect smile: Yellow, stained teeth. Oof, we’ve all been there before!

And while it is completely normal for natural teeth to go through discolouration over the years, it can still mess with your self-esteem and confidence.

Luckily for our clients at Lovoir, we’re all about solving your beauty woes – and that includes teeth stains, yellowing, and that self-conscious urge to hide your smile!

Our day spa recently added Teeth Whitening to our list of premium services, helping you achieve whiter teeth and instant results with top-quality, professional treatment from start to finish.

Now, if you’re still on the fence about trying it out, we recommend reading this article first. Here, we share all the teeth whitening must-knows – from benefits to the process to all the other concerns you may have lingering in your mind. 

And when you’re ready to explore it for yourself, give us a call at the day spa and we’ll go from there!

For now, enjoy our curated and comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about teeth whitening. We can’t wait for you to dig your teeth into this one (pun intended!)

Can Yellow Teeth Become White Again?

First thing’s first – let’s address an important question many of you are probably thinking: Is it actually possible for yellow teeth to become white again?

YES, definitely! 

Thanks to science, technology, and man’s never-ending pursuit for answers, we now understand the reasons behind tooth discolouration and how to correct it.

For starters, it pays to know the different types of teeth stains, something that happens to all of us – yes, even your favourite celebrities!

• Extrinsic stains: 

Extrinsic stains are the external discolouration on our tooth enamel caused by environmental factors like coffee, food colouring, smoking, and the like. These surface-level stains are generally easier to correct, as well as prevent (with some lifestyle changes, of course!) 

• Intrinsic stains

Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, are more difficult strains to address. This internal discolouration happens inside our tooth enamel, which is typically caused by things out of our control – genetics, medication side effects, trauma, high levels of fluoride exposure, and plain and simple ageing.

Now, before you start obsessing over your teeth in front of a mirror, the good news is: These stains don’t need to plague you forever!

With the right teeth whitening product or procedure, natural teeth can significantly whiten and brighten. Here’s how it works:

How Teeth Whitening Works

Think of teeth whitening as your good, old-fashioned laundry day – taking in your dirty clothes stained with food, coffee, red wine, and other signs of a fun-filled week. With the proper laundry detergent and machine settings, your clothes come out fresh, clean, and ready for another week of adventure!

That’s teeth whitening in a nutshell.

It involves a series of steps and ingredients that work to remove stains, bleach and brighten teeth, preparing them to eat, drink, and be merry again! That is, until your next whitening session. Simple enough to understand?

In more technical terms, the teeth whitening process involves breaking down stains into smaller pieces with the help of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or even household baking soda. 

These actives penetrate the tooth enamel to reach the discoloured molecules, separating their bonds and resulting in less concentrated colour and overall whiter, more beautiful teeth.

Phew, that was quite a mouthful (literally and figuratively)!

Long story short: Teeth stains are real but teeth whitening is magic! And the proof are in these benefits:

Benefits of Teeth Whitening

1. Whiter, brighter teeth

No lengthy explanation needed – just goodbye stains and hello pearly whites!

2. Instant results

Depending on the type of teeth whitening method you get, you can experience instant results right off the bat!

This is typically common among professional providers like dentists or aesthetic clinics as their treatments use specific levels of active ingredients, thus being able to deliver instant results.

That said, be wary of mainstream whitening products that make this promise. If fast, instant results are your goal, it is best to trust the experts!

3. Better oral hygiene and health

Perhaps the biggest bonus to teeth whitening is the effect it has on your overall oral health.

Think of it this way: Stains can be likened to leftover dirt from food, drinks, and other external factors. As such, they can do a number on your oral health, weakening your teeth and gums through time.

So with teeth whitening, not only do you get rid of these stains externally, but they also strengthen your teeth internally. Hence, healthier teeth and better oral hygiene!

Keep in mind though: These benefits are not the same for everyone. Several factors influence the results of teeth whitening, like the severity of your teeth stains, what teeth whitening product or treatment you’re on, your oral care routine and lifestyle, and so on.

All that said, a crucial part of effective teeth whitening is in 1) the ingredients and 2) the method. That brings us to the fun part of the article!

Common Teeth Whitening Active Ingredients

For starters, when on the hunt for the best teeth whitening treatments and products, keep an eye out on the active ingredients used. These are a great indicator of effectiveness, as well as safety.

Some of the most common ones include:

Teeth whitening with baking soda

Most of us are familiar with baking soda as a kitchen staple for fluffy food like bread, cakes, muffins, and cookies. But not many know that it is just as useful for the teeth as it is for the tummy – a double win!

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove surface-level stains, making it a popular home remedy for teeth whitening. 

However, it doesn’t contain any bleaching agents, so it won’t change the intrinsic colour of your teeth. Instead, it simply helps give off the impression of cleaner, clearer, more even teeth. So if you’re looking for more effective teeth whitening, this next ingredient will do the trick! 

Teeth whitening with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is one of, if not THE most popular bleaching agent used in teeth whitening. This potent ingredient helps in removing stains, correcting discolouration, and brightening teeth. 

• Mode of Action: 

For science buffs, the name is a dead giveaway for the way it works – hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen upon contact with our teeth.

The oxygen molecules, in particular, penetrate the porous tooth enamel and oxidise the stain compounds, breaking them apart. As a result, teeth stains are lightened, and the natural colour of our teeth appears whiter.

Given its effectiveness, hydrogen peroxide has been the go-to active ingredient in most whitening methods, whether that be whitening strips and toothpastes, at-home teeth whitening kits, or in-office treatments at the dentist or aesthetic clinic.

The notable difference, however, is its concentration. The higher the dosage, the faster and more effective!

• Concentration: 

Over-the-Counter (OTC) products like whitening toothpastes, gels, and strips typically contain 3% to 10% hydrogen peroxide. These low-concentration products are mostly used for regular maintenance as they deliver slow yet steady results through time.

Professional treatments, on the other hand, use higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, sometimes up to 40%. This is alongside other technology like light or heat to enhance the whitening process. These include dentists, aesthetic clinics and day spas offering in-office teeth whitening treatments. As such, they offer more impressive, noticeable results after just one session.

All that said, the age-old saying puts it best: Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. And hydrogen peroxide is no exception. We wouldn’t be the responsible professionals we are without warning you of these possible side effects!

• Risks & Side Effects: 

The downside of using TOO MUCH hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth is that it may cause teeth sensitivity, and in some cases, teeth damage.

Basically put:

1. Given its ability to penetrate the tooth enamel, it naturally reaches the dentin layer of the tooth, which contains nerve endings. This explains the tingly sensation some people feel when using teeth whitening products. 
2. Moreover, high-concentration hydrogen peroxide products may potentially cause enamel erosion if not used properly.
3. Apart from our teeth, gum irritation is another possibility which explains why professional treatments use protective measures to shield gums from whitening solutions.

Now, just to be clear: While teeth whitening methods may have their fair share of side effects, the extreme risks are highly unlikely if done the right way, with the precautions and practices, and by the right people!

Hence, it is important to understand the different teeth whitening methods available, and how to choose the best and safest option for you! Let’s break them down, shall we?

Common Teeth Whitening Methods

If you frequent beauty stores and are updated on all the latest beauty trends, then you already know that teeth whitening is no longer a novelty reserved for celebrities, influencers, and anyone willing to pay big bucks to look good. We can all get in on those pearly whites!

Teeth whitening is now available in a range of methods, price points, and preferences – from home-use products like whitening strips and whitening toothpastes to professional whitening services like in-office laser treatments or custom made trays offered by dentists and aesthetic clinics.

They all differ in the concentration of active ingredients and techniques used, thus delivering different results! As a general rule of thumb:

• For more effective teeth whitening, in-office treatments from professional providers are your best bet as they offer instant, long-term results.

• For convenience and regular maintenance, at-home products are enough to do the trick, offering a steady build-up to whiter teeth.

At-home teeth whitening products

Whitening strips

Teeth whitening strips are one of the most popular forms of teeth whitening, especially among us regular, no-frills folks!

They are flexible pieces of plastic coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. These strips are designed to adhere to the front surface of your teeth and are usually worn for a set period, often around 30 minutes a day, for a week or two.

Because they contain peroxide, they can penetrate the enamel to some extent, offering a bleaching effect that goes beyond just surface-level stain removal. However, they also come with limitations, including the risk of uneven results and tooth sensitivity.

That said, whitening strips are a convenient and affordable option for people looking for moderate improvement without much effort or time!

• Pros:
  • Ease of Use: They are user-friendly and can be applied anytime, anywhere.
  • Moderate Effectiveness: They can provide a noticeable change in tooth color for many users, especially over time, although not as dramatic as the professional treatments available in dentists or aesthetic clinics.
  • Affordability: Generally cheaper than in-office treatments, they offer a middle-ground solution for those not wanting to commit to the cost of professional whitening.

• Cons:
  • Uneven Whitening: Because the strips are flat but teeth are curved, they may not cover all areas of the teeth, which could result in uneven whitening.
  • Limited Strength: The concentration of whitening agents in over-the-counter strips is significantly lower than what you would receive from a professional treatment, limiting their efficacy for more severe stains.
  • Potential for Sensitivity: For some users, the peroxide in the strips can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, especially given the lack of professional supervision.

Whitening toothpaste or whitening gel

Teeth whitening toothpastes and gels are among the most accessible and convenient options for those looking to brighten their smiles.

Apart from fluoride (a common active in most toothpaste brands for preventing cavities and gum diseases), these products also contain mild abrasives or chemical agents that help remove surface stains, thereby giving an appearance of whiter teeth. Some even contain low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, offering more noticeable results.

However, these at-home products operate on a far less potent scale and will replace the effectiveness and precision of a professional treatment.

As such, if you plan to start using whitening toothpastes, simply consider them a helpful supplement to your broader teeth whitening regimen!

• Pros:
  • Mild Whitening: For those with minor staining or discoloration, these products can offer modest improvements.
  • Convenience: They are easy to incorporate into your daily oral hygiene routine, requiring no additional time commitment.
  • Cost-Effective: Whitening toothpaste and gels are generally less expensive than professional treatments.

• Cons:
  • Surface-Level Whitening: These products can remove surface stains, but may not make much of a difference against deeper, intrinsic stains that require professional treatment.
  • Potential for Abrasion: Overuse or incorrect use of these products can lead to enamel wear over time, especially if they contain abrasive ingredients.

Professional teeth whitening services

Teeth Whitening with Laser

Laser teeth whitening is all the talk these days! As one of the most advanced forms of teeth whitening available today, it uses a high-concentration peroxide gel coupled with a specialised laser machine, together delivering instant and long-lasting results.

After the gel is carefully applied to each tooth, the laser is then used to activate the whitening formula, setting off a chemical reaction that efficiently and rapidly breaks down stubborn stains deep within the tooth’s enamel and dentin.

The entire procedure typically takes about an hour and can only be performed by a professional – either a dentist or a trained aesthetician – assuring you of safety and quality.

Laser treatment is what you can expect from us at Lovoir, which is why we can attest to the wonders of this advanced teeth whitening technology.

• Pros:
  • Instant Results: One of the most appealing aspects of laser whitening is the speed of results! Our clients see their teeth whiten by several shades in just one session.
  • Precise and Even Results: The laser technology allows for targeted treatment, ensuring that each tooth is evenly whitened, reducing the risk of splotchy or uneven results.
  • Minimal Discomfort: The quick procedure time and targeted laser application often result in less sensitivity compared to other methods.

• Cons:
  • Cost: Given its sophisticated system, laser whitening is perhaps the most expensive form of teeth whitening, which could be a deterrent for some people.
    The good news is, our team at Lovoir understands this dilemma, which is why we offer our teeth whitening treatment at affordable packages and instalment options. Plus, once you see the impressive results, you’ll realise it’s totally worth the bucks!
  • Sensitivity: Though the risk is minimised, some patients may still experience temporary sensitivity after the procedure. This is temporary, though, and should disappear within the next few hours or days.

Here at Lovoir, our professional teeth whitening treatment uses an ultra sonic technology with a 6% hydrogen peroxide gel. This means an effective yet gentle approach that promises top-quality results without the risk of sensitivity and gum damage! A win-win for you AND your teeth – try it out for yourself, and you’ll see exactly what we mean.

Teeth Whitening Mouth Trays

Another popular method for professional teeth whitening are mouth trays.

It starts with a dentist designing a whitening kit for you, which includes a professional-grade whitening gel and a custom-fitted whitening mouth tray created from moulds of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit.

After taking the kit home, you are meant to fill the mouth tray with the whitening gel, to be worn over the teeth for a set period, often overnight or for a few hours during the day. 

Unlike other at-home whitening products, these trays are professionally designed to be used multiple times and can offer long-lasting results with proper care. Moreover, the tailored fit ensures that the gel is evenly distributed, allowing for consistent whitening while reducing the risk of gum irritation.

• Pros:
  • Personalised Treatment: The custom-fitted trays are tailored to your specific dental structure, ensuring more uniform whitening.
  • Convenience: After the initial in-office consultation and fitting, the trays can be used in the comfort of your own home.
  • Cost-Effective: While not cheap, they are generally less expensive than laser treatments but more effective than over-the-counter options.

• Cons:
  • Time Commitment: Achieving optimal results requires consistent use over a few weeks.
  • Potential for Sensitivity: Some users may experience temporary tooth sensitivity, though this usually subsides quickly.

Each of these treatments offers a unique approach to achieving a whiter, brighter smile and comes with its own set of pros and cons. If you’re unsure about which one to try, we recommend consulting a dentist or a qualified professional first.

Here at Lovoir, we’d gladly have a one-on-one consultation with you to discuss our teeth whitening treatment in detail. And because we value your needs over anything else, we’ll let you know if our service is best suited to your preferences or not. You can trust us to be honest with you!

Teeth Whitening FAQs

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, the teeth whitening process is completely safe – that is, if done correctly!

While there are tons of products available out there, we will always recommend exploring professional treatments first, especially for safe, efficient and long-lasting results. 

What are teeth whitening side effects?

You may experience slight sensitivity during and after product use or a professional treatment, but this is temporary!

Here at Lovoir, we provide our customers aftercare instructions to best manage effects, ensure lasting comfort, and achieve the best results.

How long does teeth whitening last?

For in-office teeth whitening treatments, similar to ours at Lovoir, your beautiful pearly whites can last anywhere between 3 months to 2 years depending on your oral hygiene habits, diet, lifestyle, and the nature of your teeth. 

Over-the-counter whitening products, on the other hand, last a lot shorter. They are typically promoted as products for continuous use in order to maintain results. That said, just remember what we said about the side effects of hydrogen peroxide – too much and too often are not good for your teeth, so use carefully! 

Is teeth whitening permanent?

Oh, how we all wish! Unfortunately, teeth whitening is not permanent. 

Your teeth can still become stained after the procedure, especially if you continue to consume staining foods and drinks. 

The good news is, professional whitening treatments promise longer lasting results, which can mean months or years in between sessions. That’s the closest you’ll get to permanent pearly whites – not a bad deal if you ask us!

Can anyone get teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is generally considered a safe and effective cosmetic procedure for most adults. However, it is not advised for everyone, especially for people with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or highly sensitive teeth.

As such, before proceeding with any product or treatment, it is best to consult your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening.

How much is teeth whitening?

The cost of teeth whitening depends on the kind of product or procedure you get.

Mainstream teeth whitening products like whitening pens, whitening strips and whitening kits can cost anywhere between $20 to $200 or even more for premium brands.

However, compared to professional teeth whitening treatments, they may be less effective or promising. That said, professional services are more expensive, but also offer more instant, longer lasting results.

Here at Lovoir, our goal is to make teeth whitening accessible to as many people as possible, not just a privileged few. As such, we offer a variety of affordable packages, between $250 to $750.

The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the method and location. Over-the-counter products can range from $20 to $100, while professional in-office treatments can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000.

Where can I get teeth whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is offered by dentists, day spas, salons, aestheticians and other service providers.

Here at Lovoir, our teeth whitening service uses the advanced Beyond® Polus II Ultrasonic Whitening Accelerator System, utilising cutting-edge technology and superior products for unparalleled results. Plus, with our 6% low-peroxide formula, we assure you of gentle yet effective teeth whitening that does not cause sensitivities or damage.

Performed by our professional team of certified aestheticians, we assure you of whiter, brighter teeth and instant results at an affordable price!

That said, before you book your appointment, we always advise our customers to consult with a dental professional to ensure it’s appropriate for you. 

Once you get the go signal from your dentist, we’ll see you at our day spa to get you those fresh, pearly whites. We can’t wait!