BY BTYB SPARKLING WHITE SMILE

BY BTYB SPARKLING WHITE SMILE

The teeth whitening business is booming. Expected to be worth USD $7.4 billion* (AUD $10.8 billion) globally by 2024, the old adage 'a million dollar smile' suddenly seems outdated⁠—or at least missing a few zeros.

It's not difficult to see the appeal. From A-list actresses to Instagram It-girls and everyone in between, a beautiful, bright smile is aspirational and increasingly achievable—not to mention affordable—thanks to always-evolving tech and treatments.

Whether you're a first-timer or due for a top-up treatment, we've collated everything you need to know about teeth whitening.

WHAT CAUSES TEETH TO STAIN AND YELLOW?

Teeth colour is genetic, but lifestyle choices can have a big impact.

The main culprits for causing teeth discolouration are smoking, coffee, tea and red wine. You don't need to cut all colour from your life, but clear liquids (water, gin and soda water) and light-coloured foods (white fish, chicken, an egg white omelette and porridge) are recommended for maintaining a stain-free smile.

Enamel loss can also be a factor in discolouration so be sure to keep sugary drinks and acidic foods to a minimum. They can strip the enamel, as can over-brushing.

PROFESSIONAL VS. AT-HOME WHITENING:

There are myriad at-home whitening products out there—from toothpastes and strips to overnight gels, charcoal-based powders and DIY teeth whitening remedies.

Strips can offer good results over a couple of weeks (just remember to follow the instructions and recommended frequency so you don't damage the enamel and counteract your whitening), while a whitening toothpaste imparts a daily dose of subtle whitening and brightening.

Textured teeth wipes are also a great on-the-go option to keep in your bag or desk drawer. As the name suggests, they have a bumpy surface that helps to remove daily build-up, leaving your teeth feeling fresher and brighter. Try Sparkling White Smile's On The Go Textured Teeth Wipes, $10.95.

If you're looking for maximum impact with lasting results, it's always advisable to seek an expert. In-chair whitening has the potential to take your teeth five to 14 shades lighter, while at-home products can typically only achieve results that are a couple of shades lighter.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING:

Treatments vary depending on the natural colour and condition of your teeth, the service you select and the results you're after.

In-chair whitening typically begins with a full consultation and teeth clean—this isn't always included in the price, but is advisable for best results—before a bleaching product (hydrogen peroxide) is applied. Usually an LED light is then used to speed up the whitening process and ensure the best results.

There can be some sensitivity depending on the strength of the hydrogen peroxide used. Most dentists opt for 25% hydrogen peroxide, which can cause a little discomfort, particularly to sensitive teeth. If want to err on the side of caution, look for a practitioner who uses 6% hydrogen peroxide—it's less harsh, produces little-to-no sensitivity and still delivers effective results.

Teeth whitening has definitely gotten more flexible in recent years. Alongside dentists and teeth whitening clinics, mobile services, such as Sparkling White Smile—which offers salon and mobile teeth whitening services to customers across six states.

With competitive pricing, minimum inconvenience and the ability to unlock discounts for group bookings—bridal parties are very popular—the latter category is expanding fast.

HOW LONG DO TEETH WHITENING RESULTS LAST?

Again, this depends on the type of treatment you go for, the strength of hydrogen peroxide used and, most importantly, how you care for your teeth post-treatment.

A top-up appointment every six to 12 months is recommended, but depending on the type of service you had, more frequent top-up treatments may be advisable. Be sure to follow the full after-care program recommended by your consultant and avoid all bright and dark-coloured liquids and foods for the 72hrs following your treatment.