Professional teeth whitening is one of the simplest cosmetic treatments available, and it doesn’t change the shape or structure of your teeth. At Parramatta Dentistry there are two ways to do it: whitening in the chair, in a single visit, or at home with custom-made trays. This guide compares the two so you can decide which suits your teeth, your schedule and your budget.
How professional whitening works
Both methods use a peroxide-based gel. The peroxide breaks down into oxygen molecules that move into the enamel and break apart the stain molecules that make teeth look yellow or dull. Professional products are stronger and more controlled than most supermarket options, and a dentist checks your teeth and gums first to make sure whitening is safe for you.
In-chair whitening
In-chair whitening is done in a single appointment of around one to two hours. Your gums are protected with a barrier, a concentrated whitening gel is applied to the front of your teeth, and the gel is refreshed in cycles. You’ll see a noticeable change by the end of the visit.
In-chair whitening at Parramatta Dentistry starts from $549. Conditions apply.
Good for: people who want a faster result, for example before a wedding or event, and people who’d rather not wear trays at home.
Take-home whitening
For take-home whitening, your dentist takes impressions or scans of your teeth and makes custom trays that fit snugly. You place a small amount of a lower-strength gel in the trays and wear them for a set time each day, usually for one to two weeks, following your dentist’s instructions.
Take-home kits at Parramatta Dentistry start from $449. Conditions apply. You keep the trays, so you can top up your shade later with refill gel.
Good for: people who prefer gradual change, who have sensitive teeth and want to control the pace, or who’d like to top up over time.
Whitening package
If you’d like both, the whitening package at Parramatta Dentistry is $750 and includes in-chair whitening with the Pola White system plus take-home gels and trays for top-ups. In-chair whitening can also be combined with a clean for an additional $100. Conditions apply.
Side-by-side comparison
| In-chair | Take-home | |
|---|---|---|
| Time to result | One visit | About 1–2 weeks |
| Gel strength | Higher | Lower |
| Control over pace | Set by the dentist | You can pause if sensitive |
| Top-ups | Another visit | Refill gel with your trays |
| Fee at Parramatta Dentistry | From $549 | From $449 |
Who whitening suits
Whitening tends to work best on yellow or brown discolouration caused by ageing, coffee, tea, red wine or smoking. Grey staining, such as from certain antibiotics taken in childhood, or a single dark tooth after an injury, may respond less predictably. Results vary from person to person.
Whitening may not be suitable if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, have untreated decay or gum disease, or have very sensitive teeth or exposed roots. Your dentist will check first.
Fillings, crowns and veneers won’t change colour
Whitening only works on natural tooth structure. Existing fillings, crowns, veneers and bonding stay the same shade, so after whitening they may look darker than the teeth around them. If you have visible restorations, your dentist may suggest whitening first and then replacing those restorations to match your new shade.
Sensitivity
Some people notice temporary sensitivity during or after whitening, often a short, sharp twinge with cold. It usually settles within a few days. To reduce it:
- use a sensitive toothpaste with potassium nitrate for a couple of weeks before and during whitening
- with take-home trays, wear them for shorter periods or skip a day if needed
- avoid very hot or cold food and drinks for a day or two
- let your dentist know, as they can apply a desensitising treatment
How long do results last?
Results aren’t permanent. How long they last depends largely on your diet and habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, cola, curries and smoking all stain teeth over time. Many people top up every six to twelve months with take-home gel.
Making your results last
- Drink staining drinks through a straw where practical, and rinse with water afterwards.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and keep up regular cleans to remove surface stain.
- Avoid smoking and vaping.
- Wait at least 48 hours after whitening before eating strongly coloured foods.
A word on DIY whitening
Charcoal powders, lemon juice and baking soda mixtures are sometimes promoted online. Abrasive products can wear enamel, and acidic ones can erode it, which can make teeth look more yellow over time. Over-the-counter products are generally weaker. If you’re unsure, ask your dentist before trying something new.
Read more about teeth whitening at Parramatta Dentistry.
Whitening isn’t suitable for everyone and results vary. Some people experience temporary sensitivity. Conditions apply.
Frequently asked questions
Does whitening damage enamel?
Professional whitening, used as directed under a dentist’s supervision, isn’t considered to damage healthy enamel. Temporary sensitivity is the most common side effect. Overusing whitening products, or using unregulated products, can cause problems, which is why a dental check first is important.
How white will my teeth get?
Results vary from person to person. Your natural tooth colour, the type of staining and how well your teeth respond all play a part. Your dentist will record your starting shade and discuss what’s realistic before you begin.
Can I whiten if I have veneers or crowns?
Whitening only works on natural teeth, so veneers and crowns won’t change colour. If you have restorations at the front, your dentist can plan whitening around them, and may suggest replacing them afterwards to match.
What should I avoid after whitening?
For at least 48 hours, try to avoid strongly coloured foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, curry and berries, as well as smoking. Your teeth can pick up stains more easily straight after whitening.
How often can I top up?
Many people top up with take-home gel every six to twelve months, depending on their diet and habits. Follow your dentist’s advice on how often and for how long to use top-up gel.
Book at Parramatta Dentistry
Parramatta Dentistry is at Suite 25, Level 3, 27 Hunter Street, Parramatta, a short walk from Parramatta Station. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and HICAPS is on site, so you can claim from your health fund on the day and pay only the gap, if there is one. Call (02) 8090 1109 or book online.
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for personalised advice from your dentist.