Coffee, tea, red wine and time gradually dull the colour of your teeth. Professional teeth whitening at Lorn Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Maitland lifts staining in a controlled, dentist-supervised way. This page explains how professional whitening works, the difference between in-chair and take-home options, what whitening can and cannot do, and what it costs.
What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional whitening uses dentist-grade gel to lighten the natural colour of your teeth, under the supervision of your dentist. Because we check your teeth and gums first and tailor the strength and timing to you, it is a more controlled approach than over-the-counter kits, and we can manage sensitivity along the way.
In-chair and take-home options
There are two common approaches, and they can be combined:
- In-chair whitening: done at the practice in a single visit, for a faster result.
- Take-home whitening: custom-fitted trays and professional gel you use at home over a couple of weeks, at your own pace.
At your appointment we talk through which suits your teeth, your timeframe and your budget.
What whitening can and cannot do
Whitening works on natural tooth enamel. It does not change the colour of crowns, veneers or fillings, so if you have these on front teeth, we plan around them. Whitening also works best when your teeth and gums are healthy, which is why we check first. Results vary from person to person, and some people notice temporary sensitivity, which usually settles.
How whitening works at our Lorn practice
We start with a quick check to confirm your teeth and gums are healthy and that whitening is suitable. From there we either carry out in-chair whitening or take a scan to make your custom take-home trays. We explain how to get the best result and how to keep sensitivity to a minimum.
What teeth whitening costs in Maitland
Take-home whitening at our Lorn practice starts from $200, and in-chair whitening starts from $750. The final cost depends on whether you choose take-home, in-chair or a combination, and on the condition of your teeth. We give you a clear price before we start, so there are no surprises.
Keeping your results
Whitening is not permanent, and the same things that stained your teeth in the first place will gradually do so again. Cutting back on staining drinks, not smoking, brushing twice a day and keeping your regular checkups all help your result last longer. Top-up whitening with your take-home trays can refresh the colour when you need it.
Why Maitland patients choose Lorn Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Our Lorn practice welcomes patients from across Maitland and the Hunter Valley, including East Maitland, Rutherford, Bolwarra, Thornton and Ashtonfield, with parking at the door and appointment times that fit around work and school. We supervise whitening from start to finish and explain every option in plain language before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Is teeth whitening safe?
When carried out or supervised by a dentist, whitening is a well-established treatment. We check your teeth and gums first and manage any sensitivity, which is why professional whitening is a more controlled option than over-the-counter kits.
How white will my teeth get?
That depends on your starting colour and the cause of the staining. We give you a realistic idea of what to expect at your appointment. Results vary from person to person.
Does whitening cause sensitivity?
Some people notice temporary sensitivity during or after whitening. It usually settles, and we can adjust the approach and recommend products to keep it comfortable.
Will whitening work on my crowns or veneers?
No. Whitening only lightens natural teeth, not crowns, veneers or fillings. If you have these on front teeth, we plan your treatment around them.
How long does whitening last?
It varies with your diet and habits. Many people maintain their result with the occasional top-up using take-home trays. Reducing staining drinks and not smoking helps it last.