It is very common for people to want a brighter smile as it can boost confidence and make you feel comfortable with showcasing your smile. One of the most effective ways to achieve fast results is through in-chair teeth whitening, performed under the supervision of a dentist. Unlike over-the-counter options, professional whitening offers stronger, safer, and more predictable outcomes.

What causes discolourations?

Discolouration with the teeth can be a result of external factors such as dark or coloured foods & beverages these include tea, coffee, red wine, particular spices like turmeric and dark soy based foods. Smoking cigarettes also commonly causes disclourations

Over time the outer white enamel layer wears away as a result of function over time which can expose the yellowish/brown inner layer of dentine. With a thinner layer of enamel, your teeth can appear to be more yellow

Discolourations from tooth damage or nerve injury

Certain medications such as tetracycline or doxycycline consumed as a young child can cause discolourations

1. Assessment – Your dentist will first examine your teeth and gums to ensure whitening is appropriate for you. Any existing issues, such as decay or gum disease, should be addressed before whitening.
2. Protection – The whitening gel only needs to be applied onto the teeth so a barrier is applied to protect your gums and a lip retractor is placed to move soft tissues such as your lips and cheek away. This will all be removed after the procedure
3. Application – A high-concentration whitening gel (usually hydrogen peroxide) is carefully applied to the teeth.
4. Activation – A special curing light is used to enhance the whitening effect.
5. Completion – The process usually takes 60–90 minutes, and patients often see results immediately after the session.

• Immediate results: Noticeable whitening in just one appointment.
• Safe and controlled: Performed by a dental professional with proper protection for gums and enamel.
• Convenient: Ideal for patients who want a brighter smile quickly, such as before a wedding, event, or professional engagement.
• Customised: Treatment can be adjusted to suit your specific needs and tooth shade.

While generally safe, in-chair whitening is a dental procedure which can carry some risks. Patients should be aware of potential complications:

• Tooth sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold is common in the first 24–48 hours.
• Gum irritation: Whitening gel may cause mild irritation if it contacts soft tissue.
• Uneven results: Fillings, crowns, or veneers do not whiten, which may lead to shade differences.
• Limitations: Deep stains from trauma, medications, or fluorosis may not respond fully to whitening.
• Inability to whiten cervical lesions: whitening only works on enamel. Exposed dentine as a result of heavy handed tooth brushing, grinding, gum recession will not be able to be whitened
• Dry, chapped lips: to ensure the whitening gel only goes on the teeth, a retractor will be placed to move the lips which can cause stretching and dryness over time. A lubricant such as vaseline will often be applied

In-chair whitening is a safe, efficient, and effective way to enhance your smile with immediate results. While some sensitivity or gum irritation can occur, these effects are usually temporary and manageable. For patients seeking a quick, noticeable change, professional in-chair whitening remains one of the most reliable cosmetic dental treatments available.

If you are considering whitening, schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine whether in-chair whitening is suitable for you and to discuss what results you can realistically expect.