Frequently Asked Questions – Take Home Whitening
When to use:
It is best to whiten your teeth after having your professional cleaning procedures with a dental practitioner. We recommend waiting for a minimum of 2 days after your cleaning appointment before you start your bleaching process. This is to minimise any post-operative sensitivity that may arise from the cleaning procedure.
We recommend you whiten your teeth for either: twice daily for 30-60mins each (ideal) or once a day for 60mins at a time. We also advise that you whiten your teeth for up to 10-14 days, unless the desired outcome is achieved prior to that. It is not advisable to whiten your teeth for any longer than 3 consecutive weeks, to avoid any long term adverse effects.
Your package of whitening gel should last you approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on the frequency and amount of gel you use each time.
How to use:
Thoroughly clean your teeth by brushing and flossing.
Place a teardrop amount of whitening gel in the bleaching tray of each tooth you would like to whiten. The gel is placed on the inside of the trays, on the cheek side of the teeth.
Once the gel is applied to the trays, place the bleaching trays in your mouth, using a cotton bud/tissue to wipe any excess gel from your gums.
Start timing for your desired length of time (30 minutes or 60 minutes)
When the desired bleaching time is up, take the trays out and rinse them under cold water. Then use a wet toothbrush to clean the remaining gel off the teeth.
After use, avoid eating or drinking (aside from water) any products for a minimum of 30minutes.
Possible side effects:
The most common side effect of tooth whitening is sensitivity of the teeth to cold. This sensation passes when the course of bleaching is over. You can manage the sensitivity by using sensitive toothpaste, such as Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief. There is a product called Tooth Mousse which may assist in alleviating sensitivity. Please contact us at Ashmore Dental for further information on this product.
If the sensitivity is not manageable, whiten your teeth for 30 minutes a day or alternate days.
Diet: Best outcomes are achieved and maintained when foods of dark colours are avoided for the duration of the whitening period. These include curry, beetroot, red wine, coffee, tea and spinach, among others.
Storage: Keep the whitening gel tubes refrigerated (which can last up to two years).
Upkeep/Maintenance: Consult with us at Ashmore Dental at your regular dental checkup for advice regarding a refill to ensure the continuation of your beautiful fresh white smile.