Cosmetic dentistry
Professional teeth whitening
Whitening lightens the natural tooth shade using a peroxide-based gel. It is only appropriate after a check-up confirms your teeth and gums are healthy, because whitening over decay or exposed roots causes problems.
- Provided by Dr Shruti Biyani, Principal Dentist
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- HICAPS on-the-spot claiming
How we assess whether it's right for you
- Examination to exclude decay, leaking fillings and gum disease
- Shade record and photographs before starting
- Discussion of why your teeth are discoloured, since not all staining responds
Suitability is decided after an examination, not from a photograph or a phone description. If a treatment is not right for you, your dentist will say so and set out what else is available.
What the process involves
1. Health check
A check-up and clean is completed first; surface stain removal alone sometimes achieves what you want.
2. In-chair
Gums are isolated and professional-strength gel applied in cycles during a single appointment.
3. Take-home
Custom trays and lower-concentration gel used over one to two weeks, alone or to top up.
4. Review
A shade review and advice on maintaining the result.
Risks and limitations
- Temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common and usually settle within a few days.
- Existing fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour, so they may need replacing to match.
- Results vary between individuals; internal staining, tetracycline staining and grey shades respond less predictably. Whitening is not permanent and fades over time.
- Whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for children, without specific advice.
Alternatives to consider
- A scale and clean to remove surface staining
- Composite bonding or veneers for staining that will not lighten
- Accepting the natural shade
Any dental procedure carries risks. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal advice. Outcomes vary between people, and suitability can only be determined after an examination by a registered dental practitioner.
What affects the cost
- Fees depend on the treatment actually required, and are confirmed in a written plan before treatment begins.
- In-chair and take-home whitening are quoted separately; combined packages are sometimes recommended.
- Whitening is a cosmetic procedure and is generally not rebated by health funds.
See fees and payment options for health funds, CDBS, DVA and payment plans.
Ready when you are
Book online in about a minute, or speak to reception if you would like to ask something first. No obligation to proceed with treatment at the first visit.
- Clinic
- 3/54 Nullarbor Avenue, Franklin ACT 2913
- Phone
- (02) 6274 0404
Before your appointment
What to bring
Your Medicare card, private health fund card, any concession or DVA card, and a list of medicines you take. If you have had recent X-rays elsewhere, bring them or tell us where they were taken.
How long it takes
Appointment length depends on what is found at the examination. Reception gives you an estimated time when you book, and your dentist confirms it once the plan is agreed.
Nervous patients
Tell reception when you book. Your dentist can explain each step before it happens, agree a stop signal with you, and break treatment into shorter visits.
Children and families
Family appointments can often be arranged back to back. Eligible children can be treated under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Teeth whitening — questions we're often asked
How long do results last?
It varies with diet, smoking and home care. Many people notice gradual fading over months to a couple of years and use take-home top-ups.
Will it damage my enamel?
Professionally supervised whitening at appropriate concentrations is well established. Sensitivity is the most common side effect, and your dentist screens for reasons not to proceed.
Can I whiten if I have crowns on my front teeth?
Whitening will not change the crowns. If they no longer match afterwards, replacement may be needed — factor that into your decision.
From the blog
Related reading
- Payment and schemesChild Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) at Franklin Bright SmilesWhat the CDBS covers, how eligibility is checked and what happens if the benefit runs out mid-treatment.
- Payment and schemesDepartment of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) dental careHow DVA Gold and White Card arrangements work for dental treatment at the practice.
- Payment and schemesUsing your private health fund at Franklin Bright SmilesHow rebates, annual limits and on-the-spot claiming work, and how to check your cover before treatment.
Book an appointment
Book online at a time that suits you, or call reception on (02) 6274 0404 to talk it through first.