What to Look for When Getting Your Teeth Whitened

A brighter smile is one of the simplest ways to refresh your appearance and boost confidence. But with so many whitening products available online and in pharmacies, it can be hard to know what truly delivers safe, noticeable results.

If you’re considering teeth whitening in Tauranga, here’s what actually works — and what to look out for.

Professional in-clinic whitening

In-chair whitening performed by a dental professional remains one of the most effective ways to achieve significant shade improvement.

At our Tauranga dental surgery, teeth whitening treatment uses stronger concentrations of hydrogen peroxide than over-the-counter products. Because of this higher strength, treatment is carried out in the clinic under careful supervision. We ensure the whitening gel is precisely applied to the teeth and does not come into contact with the gums, reducing the risk of irritation or sensitivity.

Professional whitening can often achieve noticeable results in a single visit, making it a popular option for patients wanting faster outcomes.

Internal bleaching for discoloured teeth

Not all staining sits on the surface. Sometimes a tooth becomes darker from within, particularly if it is a non-vital tooth (a tooth that no longer has a nerve supply, often following trauma or root canal treatment).

In these cases, internal bleaching may be recommended. This involves placing a whitening agent inside the tooth itself and leaving it in place for two to four weeks. The process may be repeated up to three times to achieve the desired shade.

Internal bleaching is commonly used on front teeth and may be completed before placing a veneer or crown to ensure the best cosmetic result.

Dentist-led home whitening treatment

For patients who prefer gradual whitening at their own pace, dentist-supervised home whitening is an excellent option.

Your Tauranga dentist can:

• Take impressions of your teeth

• Create customised whitening trays (mouth guards)

• Supply professional-grade whitening gel

Custom trays ensure the gel fits snugly against your teeth while protecting your gums. This makes treatment safer and more effective than generic kits. Many patients see visible improvement within a couple of weeks.

If you’re unsure which approach is best, we’re happy to discuss whether home whitening suits your goals and lifestyle.

Can anyone get their teeth whitened?

In most cases, yes. Many adults who want a whiter smile are suitable candidates for treatment. However, whitening results vary depending on the cause and depth of staining.

Before starting treatment, it’s important to address:

• Tooth decay

• Broken or chipped teeth

• Existing dental restorations that may require attention

Your dentist will assess your oral health to ensure whitening is both safe and effective.

When whitening may not be suitable

• Unfortunately, whitening is not recommended if you:

• Have staining caused by certain antibiotics taken in childhood

• Have extensive periodontal (gum) disease

• Are pregnant

• Are under 14 years of age

A professional consultation helps determine whether whitening is appropriate or if alternative cosmetic options would be better.

Why professional whitening is safer

Over-the-counter products may seem convenient, but they often:

• Contain lower concentrations of active ingredients

• Lack custom-fit trays

• Increase the risk of gum irritation

• Deliver uneven results

Professional whitening provides controlled application, personalised guidance, and monitoring of sensitivity.

A brighter smile, done properly

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments — and when carried out correctly, it is both safe and effective. Whether you choose in-clinic whitening for fast results or a customised home kit for gradual improvement, professional supervision ensures you achieve the best outcome for your smile.

If you’re considering teeth whitening in Tauranga, book a consultation to find out which option is right for you. A brighter smile may be closer than you think.

February 13, 2026

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