The current teeth whitening special at Star Dental Care Port Macquarie is a professional at-home whitening package for $485.
This special includes the ZOOM In Tray Whitening System, which uses custom-fitted trays and professional-grade gels.
Endless Teeth Whitening Program
The Endless Teeth Whitening Program is a maintenance offer designed for patients who keep up with regular preventative care.
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The Offer: You receive one free top-up whitening gel syringe every six months when you attend a bi-annual checkup or cleaning appointment.
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Initial Requirement: New and existing patients are eligible for discounted at-home whitening when visiting for treatment to start the program.
Terms and Conditions
To remain eligible for the free top-up gel, patients must meet the following criteria at Star Dental Care:
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Initial Screening: Must complete a New Patient Exam, including X-rays and a professional cleaning.
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Oral Health: All tooth decay must be removed within one year to prevent complications with whitening gels.
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Regular Attendance: Checkup and cleaning visits must occur at least every 7 months.
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Account Standing: Your dental account must remain current with no outstanding balances.
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Health Requirements: Participants must be at least 18 years old and cannot be pregnant or a nursing mother.
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Active Ingredients: Most gels use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide is essentially a more stable form of hydrogen peroxide that breaks down slowly, making it ideal for longer wear times.
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Penetration: The peroxide molecules pass through the porous surface of your tooth enamel to reach the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel).
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Breaking Down Stains: Once inside, the peroxide releases oxygen molecules that react with chromogens (the compounds responsible for tooth discolouration), breaking them into smaller, less visible molecules to lighten the tooth’s appearance.
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In-tray tooth whitening works by holding a peroxide-based bleaching gel in close, even contact with your teeth for an extended period, allowing it to penetrate the enamel and break down deep-seated stains.
How the Whitening Process Works
The whitening effect is achieved through a chemical process called oxidation:
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Custom-Fit vs. Over-the-Counter Trays
While both use the same basic principle, professional trays are generally considered the “gold standard” for effectiveness and safety.
Feature Custom-Fit Trays Over-the-Counter (OTC) Trays Fit Precisely moulded to your teeth via dental impressions. One-size-fits-all or “boil-and-bite”. Gel Contact Ensures even distribution and maximum contact with all surfaces. May be loose, leading to uneven whitening or missed spots. Safety Prevents gel from leaking onto sensitive gum tissue. High risk of leakage, which can cause chemical burns or irritation. Gel Strength Uses professional-grade concentrations for faster results. Uses lower concentrations as per safety regulations. The Typical Treatment Cycle
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Note on Sensitivity: Temporary tooth sensitivity is a common side effect. It usually resolves within a few days after finishing the treatment.