FAQ's

How does it work?
Teeth whitening works by using a bleaching agent, called hydrogen peroxide, to break down the stains and discolouration on the surface of your teeth. When applied, the whitening agent penetrates the enamel and reaches the underlying dentin layer. The oxygen molecules from the bleaching agent react with the discoloured molecules within your teeth, effectively breaking the bonds that hold them together. This process results in a whitening effect, as the stained areas are lightened. Our medical grade hydrogen peroxide, combined with the latest ultralight technology equipment means we can achieve effect results that far surpass other over-the-counter products.


How Long Will It Last?
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. 

What Will My Results Be?
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, click here to read more!

Why is it worth the money?
Absolutely! 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 can 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.

Is it safe?
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 this 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.

Aftercare
Following your teeth whitening treatment, your enamel's pores remain open, making them highly susceptible to staining. This could potentially undo the results of your whitening. 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. Keep in mind that the more staining foods and drinks you consume, the quicker your teeth will become discolored 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 can be made to achieve a brighter smile.

The White Diet
Our top tips to make your new smile shine brighter for longer.

For 24-48 after your whitening treatment, we recommend following the "white diet" to maximize on your new pearly whites. Here's our go-to list of foods to Enjoy:

- Chicken and turkey
- White fish
- White rice and pasta
- White sauce
- Cauliflower
- Cottage cheese
- Potatoes (without skin)
- Peeled apples
- Bananas

And here's the foods to avoid:

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

Please note that acidic foods and beverages can 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
- Lemonade
- Orange juice and other acidic fruit juices
- Tea and coffee
- Energy drinks
- Colas and other fizzy 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 your teeth's 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.

Pre-Treatment Instructions
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, it's advisable to have 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.

Pregnant/Breastfeeding/Under 16
All Teeth Whitening is ‘Contraindicated’ for Women Pregnant & Breast feeding and children under 16-yo. That means, although these reasons have not been scientifically proven, these factors are considered to serve as a reason to withhold a certain treatment during this time. Therefore, until scientific research studies these factors and says yes or no, certain products are ‘Contraindicated’ as an unproven safety risk.

Crowns and/or Veneers
Yes. The Smile Studio caters for crowns and veneers, although these will not whiten during the process. However, we can help you match your natural teeth to the same colour shade as your crown or veneers.

Sensitivity worries?
A few people who have trouble drinking cold or hot drinks or eating ice cream can sometimes experience some mild sensitivity response to the Teeth Whitening procedure. These cases are very rare, but can be uncomfortable for susceptible individuals and normally subside within 30 minutes. We do not recommend scaling and polishing your teeth prior to teeth whitening, as this can increase the risk if hypersensitivity. If you experience any prolonged discomfort or have any concerns, please contact our team at hello@thesmilestudio.co.nz

Does it hurt?
Cosmetic Teeth Whitening should be completely pain free! If you have sensitive teeth, some sensitivity may be felt. This is a temporary side effect and no permanent damage is caused.

Where are you located?
We have two convenient locations for your teeth whitening needs: one in Feilding and another in Invercargill. You can choose the location that best suits you, and our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service at both sites. When booking your appointment, you will be directed to choose your location.

Our commitment to you…
We recognise that every person has their own personal reasons for wanting a brighter smile. Our own pursuit of whiter teeth 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 focus has always been on creating a comfortable, pain-free experience that allows you to 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. By helping to brighten and whiten your teeth, we're committed to bringing that happiness back to you.