What you need to know about teeth whitening

Whether or not you’ve thought about it, there is no escaping the hype around teeth whitening or for that matter, the massive range of products jumping out at you as you stroll down the beauty aisle at the local supermarket.

A worldwide survey compiled in 2016 by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (Isaps) showed an overall increase of 9% in surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures and ranked South Africa 24th in the take-up of cosmetic procedures.

However, if breast augmentation, nose jobs, calf and peck implants or tummy tucks are not your thing, then perhaps you may consider a simple teeth whitening instead.

As with all cosmetic procedures, there’s concern about affordability, efficacy, safety and, heaven forbid, the possibility of the procedure being botched.

Picture: iStock

With so many concerns about teeth whitening, we took with it a list of questions to Dr Carmen Wilsenach, a cosmetic and general dentist at The Cosmetic and Dental Emporium in Bryanston, north of Johannesburg. This is what she had to say:

Is teeth whitening safe?

It’s totally safe. However, if you are going to use over-the-counter products that have not been approved by the medical board, then the answer is no. If you’re going have a cosmetic or general dentist do it, there is no concern about safety.

Can the procedure cause pain?

The procedure is not painful. What’s important is to come in beforehand to have a consultation to check on teeth and gum sensitivity and remedy that before we proceed with the whitening.

Picture: iStock

What are risks or side-effects of whitening?

There are no risks. However, as I explained in the case of people with sensitive teeth or gums, we help remedy that before the procedure. There is a bit of sensitivity to be expected for at least 24 hours after the procedure but it’s not debilitation. We also provide a soothing gel to reduce sensitivity after the procedure.

How is whiteness maintained after the procedure?

Whitening lasts between six months to a year, depending on the oral habits of the individual. We, however, provide clients with a home-whitening kit so that they can do a home touch-up whenever they feel like.

Picture: iStock

How much does it cost and will the medical aid cover it?

Because whitening is an aesthetic procedure, medical aids will not cover it. Depending on whether you want a home-whitening kit or an in-chair procedure, it could range from around R4 000 to R6 500. You could always chat to us about a payment plan. There’s always something we can arrange.

• Dr Wilsenach says that while teeth whitening is a great confidence booster, regular six-monthly dental checks and oral care are just as important – whether you are whitening or not.

• For more information about oral hygiene or to set up a consultation with Dr Wilsenach, call The Cosmetic and Dental Emporium on 011-463-5294.

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