Teeth whitening works by using a bleaching agent, hydrogen peroxide, to break down stains and discolouration on your teeth. When applied, this whitening agent penetrates the enamel and reaches the dentin layer beneath. The oxygen molecules from the bleaching agent then interact with the discoloured molecules in your teeth, breaking the bonds that hold the stains together. This process lightens the stained areas, resulting in a whiter appearance. Our medical-grade hydrogen peroxide, combined with cutting-edge ultralight technology, delivers results that far exceed those of over-the-counter products.

Cosmetic teeth whitening should be completely pain-free! You and your teeth are in safe hands with our Registered Cosmetic Teeth Whitening practitioners. If you have sensitive teeth, you might experience some temporary sensitivity (refer to the 'sensitivity concerns' FAQ). Rest assured, this sensitivity is a temporary side effect and does not cause permanent damage.

Our teeth whitening system employs the world’s most advanced technology and materials to whiten your teeth safely, efficiently, and with exceptional results. The gentle whitening gel is designed to effectively remove not only surface stains but also deep-seated discoloration within your teeth, ensuring a faster and longer-lasting whitening effect.

With our cutting-edge technology, the need for invasive and uncomfortable pre-procedures is eliminated. Unlike older ‘laser’ systems that use UV light, which can cause gum irritation or ‘sunburn,’ our system is non-invasive and reduces the risk of sensitivity and gum discomfort. There’s no need for uncomfortable trays, gummy strips, or gum-blocking measures.

The process is simple: our specially formulated whitening gel is carefully applied to the visible surfaces of your teeth. You can then relax as the modern light accelerator, which uses pure-blue halogen light (filtered to remove UV and heat), works its magic. This scientifically proven method delivers optimal whitening results without the common drawbacks of traditional systems.

All treatments are performed by a registered cosmetic teeth whitening practitioner.

The duration of your teeth whitening results can vary based on individual factors such as diet and lifestyle. For some individuals with minimal staining from their diet, the effects can last up to 1 year. However, for most people, whitening typically lasts around 6 months. To maintain your bright smile, periodic touch-up treatments are recommended, especially for clients who regularly consume coffee, staining foods and drinks, or use tobacco products. After all, your smile is one of your most noticeable features - why not keep it dazzling?To make maintenance easier we offer our 'White for Life' package, designed to help you maintain that brilliant grin effortlessly. 

Get ready to see a stunning transformation! The level of whitening you achieve will depend on the initial discoloration of your teeth. Typically, you can expect to brighten your teeth by up to 5 shades!Clients with more significant staining often return for a "refresh" treatment after their initial Signature Treatment. This refresh is available every three months as part of our 'White for Life' package.

Teeth whitening by a registered cosmetic teeth whitening practitioner is worth the investment. When performed by a trained and certified professional, you’re not only ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective, but you’re also likely to achieve significantly better results than over-the-counter options. Registered practitioners use high-quality, medical-grade products and advanced technology that will provide a more noticeable and longer-lasting whitening effect. Additionally, they are equipped to tailor the treatment to your specific needs and manage any potential sensitivity or side effects, giving you peace of mind and a brighter, more confident smile. Stop wasting money on supermarket whitening toothpastes, strips, and home treatments. With our one-time upfront cost, you get instant, pain-free results that last over six months.

Before undergoing a professional teeth whitening treatment, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure the best results and minimise potential sensitivity.

1. Do not brush or floss immediately before treatment: Brushing and flossing right before your treatment can cause your gums to be more sensitive, potentially leading to irritation during the whitening process.

2. Avoid staining foods and drinks: In the 24 hours leading up to your appointment, try to avoid consuming foods or drinks that could stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries.

3. Hydration is key: Drink plenty of water before your treatment to help maintain moisture in your mouth, which can aid in the whitening process.

4. Health disclosure: Ensure you disclose any recent dental work or sensitivities to your practitioner before the treatment. This includes informing them of any fillings, crowns, or veneers, as these do not respond to whitening treatments the same way natural teeth do.

5. Consultation with your dentist: If you haven’t had a dental check-up recently, we recommend having one before whitening to ensure your teeth and gums are in good condition for the treatment.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be better prepared for your whitening session, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness during the process.

Following your teeth whitening treatment, your enamel's pores remain open, making them highly susceptible to staining. This can potentially undo the results of your whitening if post treatment guidelines are not followed. These pores typically close within 24-48 hours, so it's strongly recommended to follow the 'white diet' during this period before returning to your regular diet. At The Smile Studio, your cosmetic teeth whitening practitioner will provide you with white diet suggestions, an aftercare guide, and a goodie bag to make your whitening journey easier. It's just one of the many perks of choosing us!

Keep in mind that the more staining foods and drinks you consume, the quicker your teeth will become discoloured again. By being mindful of your diet, you can maintain your whiter smile for a longer time.

If you desire to further whiten your teeth, a follow up appointment for a "refresh" treatment can be made to achieve a brighter smile.

After your teeth whitening treatment, your enamel’s pores start to slowly close again, making your teeth more prone to staining in the first 24 to 48 hours post-treatment. To maximize the effectiveness of your new smile, we strongly recommend strictly following the "white diet" for the first 24-48 hours. Here's our go-to list of foods to enjoy:

- Chicken
- White bread, rice or pasta
- White fish
- White sauce
- Cauliflower
- Cottage cheese
- Rice Crackers
- Potatoes (without skin)
- Peeled apples
- Bananas
- Oats
- Egg whites

And here's the foods to avoid:

- Colored fruits and vegetables like capsicum, carrots, and berries, beetroot.
- Dark leafy greens such as spinach and broccoli
- Dark and milk chocolate
- Rye and dark bread
- Tomatoes and red sauces
- Curries, pickles
- Butter and margarine
- Coloured lollies

Acidic beverages can also open the pores in your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to staining. When consuming these, consider using a straw to reduce direct contact with your teeth.

Non-Staining Beverages:
- Water
- Sparkling water
- Milk

Beverages to Avoid:
- All fizzy drinks (coke, lemonade etc)
- Orange juice and other acidic fruit juices
- Tea and coffee
- Energy drinks

Non-Staining Alcoholic Drinks:
- Vodka
- Gin
- White wine
- Champagne

Alcoholic Drinks to Avoid:
- Red wine
- Stout or dark beer
- Colored mixed drinks and cocktails
- Dark spirits

Frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking can lead to teeth discoloration. Many alcoholic drinks, like wine, contain tannins that stain teeth, while nicotine from tobacco can also cause discoloration. Reducing your intake of these can help maintain whiteness.

Temperature Sensitivity: Be cautious with extremely hot or cold liquids. Rapid temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract, making them more vulnerable to staining. This hot-and-cold cycling can affect the longevity of your white smile.

Teeth whitening is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 16 years old. This means that, while there is no definitive scientific evidence proving harm, these factors are considered reasons to avoid the treatment during these times. Until further scientific research provides conclusive evidence, certain products are deemed contraindicated due to potential, though unproven, safety risks.

We cater for crowns and veneers, although these will not whiten during the process.

We can help you match your natural teeth to the same colour shade as your crown or veneers.

If you have restorations planned with your dentist, it is recommended to whiten your teeth first, and then match the new restorations to the whitened teeth.

If you already have sensitivity to cold or hot drinks, or to items like ice cream, you may experience similar sensitivity after a teeth whitening treatment. This sensitivity typically resolves within 30 minutes.

We do not recommend scaling or polishing your teeth before whitening, as this can increase the risk of hypersensitivity. If you experience prolonged discomfort, using a sensitive toothpaste like Sensodyne may help. Some clients also find relief with over-the-counter products such as Bonjela.

We offer two convenient locations for your teeth whitening needs: Feilding and Invercargill. When booking your appointment via the website, you'll be prompted to select your preferred location.

We understand that every person has their own personal reasons for wanting a brighter smile. Our own pursuit of whiter teeth, due to Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining, was a pivotal moment that ultimately inspired the beginning of The Smile Studio.

Through this journey, we identified the need for an accessible yet effective teeth whitening solution for people like you and me.

Our goal has always been to provide a comfortable, pain-free experience that lets you enhance your smile without breaking the bank.

There’s something incredibly rewarding about knowing that a simple smile can contribute to a person’s happiness, confidence, self-esteem, and overall appearance. By helping to brighten and whiten your teeth, we're committed to bringing you a renewed sense of joy and self-assurance that enhances both your smile and your well-being.