WHITENING GREATS VS GIMMICKS

There are lots of new and novel smile brighteners, including mobile teeth whitening and DIY blue lights. It’s all fun, but what works? Dr Reuben Sim from Dental Boutique in Melbourne notes that “only registered dental professionals can administer more than six per cent hydrogen peroxide, so they give the best results. Plus, research suggests in-chair whitening may increase the strength of the enamel.”

IN THE CHAIR:

In-clinic options are the most effective and can be applied after a check-up and clean. New Idea’s beauty editor Elise Wilson tried Philips Zoom! – an in-clinic teethwhitening service (approx $595), which does up to four sessions in one sitting to take teeth five to seven shades lighter. “I had slight sensitivity but nothing Panadol couldn’t fix – and I got so many compliments!” says Elise.

PASTES, STRIPS AND KITS:

These relatively affordable at-home options can help to remove stains, maintain brightness and freshen teeth a touch – just don’t expect it to work miracles. “Most do-it-yourself options need to be used for up to two weeks and only contain low concentrations of active whitening ingredients, so the results are limited,” says Brisbane cosmetic dentist Dr James Malouf. Make sure your take-home mouthguards fit properly to avoid any gum sensitivity – and remember that overusing whitening toothpaste can wear down enamel.

FROM LEFT: Colgate Optic White High Impact Whitenin Toothpaste with Hydrogen Peroxide, $9.99, chemistwarehouse.com.au; Hismile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit, $149, hismileteeth.com