Over time, stains build up, enamel thins, and restorations don’t age like natural teeth. At Switch Dental in Lower Hutt, we offer professional teeth whitening solutions that are safe, tailored, and much more effective than supermarket kits. Whether you want a subtle lift or a Hollywood glow, we’ll help you choose the right option for your teeth, goals, and lifestyle.
Not all stains are created equal. Some sit on the surface from coffee, red wine, or smoking. Others are internal — caused by trauma, age, fillings, or medication.
Whitening works best on natural tooth enamel. It’s especially effective for:
- General yellowing with age
- Stains from tea, coffee, or tobacco
- Uneven colour after orthodontics
- Mild patchiness or dullness
If you’ve got internal staining (e.g. from tetracycline, root canal, or fluorosis), we’ll talk about other options like internal whitening, composite bonding, or veneers — depending on what’s going on.
Most of our patients choose take-home whitening because it gives them control, reduces sensitivity, and is easy to top up later.
How it works:
- We assess your teeth and any existing fillings or crowns (important — these won’t change colour)
- We take digital impressions and make a custom 3D-printed tray — thin, comfortable, and shaped to keep gel off your gums
- You’ll get a whitening gel (we use Zoom or Opalescence – both are professional-grade and not available in stores)
- Wear the trays for a set time each day for 1–2 weeks, depending on the gel strength and your preference
- Once you have the tray, refill kits are affordable — most people just top up once or twice a year
We also stock desensitising products like Tooth Mousse and recommend a check-up and clean before starting, so the results are even.
We focus mostly on custom take-home kits because they’re:
- Gentler on your teeth
- Easier to control
- Less likely to cause rebound fading
- Longer-lasting
If you’re in a rush or want same-day results, we can discuss in-chair whitening options too — just ask.
Sometimes. Most of them use abrasive crystals to scrub off surface stains. If your teeth are stained from food or smoking, they can help a bit. But for most people, discolouration is deeper — and no amount of scrubbing will get through that. Overusing abrasive pastes can also wear down enamel or make your teeth sensitive.
Not at all. Some people want the brightest shade possible — and that’s totally fine. But most patients are just after a natural, refreshed look. One or two shades lighter is often all it takes to make your whole smile feel new again. We’ll help you choose the right level of brightness based on your colouring, lifestyle, and goals.
Does whitening damage teeth?
No. Whitening doesn’t strip enamel or harm your teeth. It temporarily dehydrates the tooth surface, which is why some people experience mild sensitivity. This usually settles quickly.
How long does whitening last?
That depends on your habits. Coffee, tea, and red wine will darken teeth again over time. Touch-ups every 6–12 months can maintain your results.
What if I have fillings or crowns?
Whitening gel won’t change their colour, so it’s important we plan carefully. You may need to replace older fillings afterward to match your new shade.
Why Choose Switch Dental for Whitening?
We know teeth.
You get a custom-fit tray
We don’t oversell.
We support you after treatment.
