Teeth Whitening: How To Instantly Brighten Your Smile

Want celebrity-style pearly whites? Eleanor Pendleton shows you the different ways how.

Have you thought about getting your teeth whitened but haven’t actually done the deed? Then, consider this: as teeth tend to become stained and yellow as we age, a whiter and brighter smile can instantly make you look younger.

Dr. Angelo Lazaris is the first to admit white teeth are a sign of beauty and good health. “Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you,” he says. “Professional teeth whitening procedures have been around for over 20 years,” says Dr. Lazaris. “But, in recent times, we’ve seen great advances in technology.”

Dr. Lazaris, who recommends Zoom! Whitening, explains the procedure sees Ozone, a whitening gel, which is applied to the teeth first. “It increases the effectiveness of Zoom! and also decreases any sensitivity or discomfort.” Shortly afterwards, a hydrogen peroxide gel is applied to the teeth and is activated by a blue light. “The whitening process involves oxidation of pigments within the tooth structure to neutralise them,” says Dr. Lazaris.

The treatment should take an hour all up, but is there any down time? “Up to 80 per cent of individuals are reported to experience sensitivity that can range from mild tingling to pronounced “zaps” that can last several seconds,” says Dr. Lazaris. “This can often last for up to 24 hours after treatment and there is no harm done to the teeth.” After the treatment, your teeth can become porous so Dr. Lazaris recommends patients avoid coffee, tea and red wine 24 hours after whitening.

Prefer more of a quick fix option? Try lipstick. “Blue-based red lip colour can make teeth look whiter,” says Elsa Morgan, L’Oréal Paris Makeup Director for Australia.” Morgan says bronzer is brilliant for making both teeth and the whites of eyes look brighter. But, what should you avoid? “Steer clear of any orange-based lip colours and pastel eye colours as they will amplify the yellowness of stained teeth or the sallow skin underneath tired eyes,” says Morgan. Try L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Made-For-Me Intense Lipstick in 375 Deep Raspberry and L’Oréal Paris Glam Bronze Duo.

And, like always, in between meals remember brush teeth and keep them clean. We like White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste. So, go on – get white teeth and give yourself something to really smile about!