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Dr Jess Wong
Whitening is one of the most asked-about treatments and one of the most misunderstood. Here are the myths we hear most often, and what professional teeth whitening treatment actually involves.
Myth 1: “Whitening ruins your enamel”
Professional whitening gel works by passing oxygen into the tooth to break apart the stain molecules inside it. The enamel structure isn’t stripped or worn down. What can cause damage is uncontrolled use of unregulated materials, eg strong gels or acidic DIY mixes with no professional oversight.
Myth 2: “Charcoal toothpaste does the same thing”
Charcoal, bicarb soda and lemon juice are abrasive or acidic. They may scrub off a bit of surface staining, but repeated use can thin and destroy the enamel. The layer underneath the enamel is called dentine, which is naturally more yellow in colour, and so scrubbing off enamel can end up making teeth looking darker or more yellow over time. None of them change the actual colour of the tooth.
Myth 3: “A chemist kit is just as good”
Over-the-counter kits use a much weaker gel and a generic tray. Gel that leaks onto the gums doesn’t whiten the teeth and can irritate and burn the gums. Our in-chair Philips Zoom whitening treatment is applied directly onto the teeth without the use of trays, and we make custom-made trays for our PolaDay take-home kits.
Myth 4: “Whitening works on every tooth”
Fillings, crowns and veneers won’t change colour and within your own mouth, different teeth are likely to be different in colour. At the consultation appointment, we will discuss if you are suitable for teeth whitening treatment, what to expect and if there are any restorations that may need to replaced afterwards.
Myth 5: “It’s always painful”
Some sensitivity is normal and usually settles within 24 hours. We recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste 2 weeks before any Zoom session and during the full course of any take-home whitening treatment. The Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed lamp has adjustable intensity settings for comfort.
What actually happens during in-chair Zoom treatment
We start with a check-up, x-rays and photos to confirm your teeth and gums are healthy and record your starting shade. The whitening appointment itself takes around 90 minutes: we place a barrier over your gums, apply the gel, and activate the gel with the Zoom WhiteSpeep lamp. This is repeated over a few cycles. Afterwards, stick to a “white diet” for 24 to 48 hours — no coffee, tea, red wine, berries, curry or soy sauce while the teeth are still porous.
How much does Zoom teeth whitening cost?
Our Zoom in-chair whitening starts at $850.
You can see our current teeth whitening treatments and pricing here. If your health fund provides a benefit for whitening, eligible claims can be processed through HICAPS. Humm payment plans are also available.
Free Sonicare toothbrush with Zoom whitening
Until 30 November 2026, eligible patients receiving Philips Zoom in-chair whitening can also claim a FREE Philips Sonicare 2100 electric toothbrush, valued at $99.95. The toothbrush is claimed directly through Philips following your treatment.
See the Zoom Whitening + Free Sonicare offer and full T&Cs here.
Teeth whitening FAQs
How many shades whiter will I get? It varies depending on your starting shade and type of staining. We’ll give you a realistic idea before treatment.
How long does whitening last? Often around one to two years, although coffee, tea, red wine, smoking and other habits can affect how quickly staining returns.
Will whitening make my teeth look unnaturally white? No, there is a limit as to how white your teeth will go. Both Zoom whitening and our take-home whitening kits will achieve this but they won’t make your teeth look unnaturally white.
Is whitening right for you?
If you’re thinking about whitening, we can examine your teeth, talk through what you’re hoping to achieve and let you know whether Zoom whitening is a good option for you.
Call Mascot Dental Clinic on (02) 9098 6990 or email reception@mascotdentalclinic.com.au.