PureSmile Teeth Whitening FAQs

Looking for a whiter smile?

You have come to the right place. 

Here at PureSmile, we are teeth whitening specialists with a genuine difference—the kind that shows up in your results, not just our marketing. We have the expertise to make teeth noticeably whiter using treatments that are safe, professionally administered, and built to last.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, a job interview, or simply want to feel more confident in your own smile, our team is here to walk you through every step.

We get a lot of questions before people book their first appointment, so we’ve put together this page to answer the most common ones honestly and clearly.

How Does the Process Work?

Here is how a standard in-chair treatment at PureSmile works:

  1. One of our professionally trained technicians will assess your initial shade so we have a baseline to measure your results against.
  2. Our activation spray is then applied to your teeth using a sponge brush. This pre-treatment step prepares the enamel for the whitening gel that follows.
  3. Your mouth tray will be filled with our custom-formulated gel. All our technicians undergo extensive training so the gel is placed correctly in the tray for maximum coverage and results. 
  4. From there, you sit back, put on your protective glasses, and we apply our dental-grade LED light to activate the whitening process.
  5. Every 15 minutes, we repeat this cycle to achieve multiple activations of the gel, giving you the best outcome possible within a single session.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Absolutely. Our standard cosmetic treatments utilise a gentle, compliant formula designed to maximise safety while carrying zero known side effects. They are custom-made, registered with the Food and Drug Administration in the USA, and fully compliant with EU cosmetic standards. Safety is genuinely central to how we formulate and apply every product we use.

How Many Shades Whiter Can My Teeth Get?

Results vary from person to person depending on individual physiology, starting shade, and the nature of the staining present.

Our customers regularly achieve up to 11 shades whiter, with an average improvement of 6 to 8 shades. We use cosmetic whitening products specifically designed to bring your teeth to their personal best colour, not a one-size-fits-all standard.

How white your teeth can get also depends on whether you have surface staining from lifestyle habits like coffee or smoking, or deeper intrinsic staining from medications or aging. Both can be addressed, though results will differ.

How long will my results last?

Most people find that touching up their whitening every 6 to 9 months works well for maintaining brightness.

That said, how long your results last depends on the level of staining on your enamel when you started, and how your eating and drinking habits sit afterwards. Steer clear of coffee, black tea, red wine, and smoking if you want your results to hold as long as possible.

Using an enamel booster after your treatment is something we also recommend. It helps seal in the results and supports overall enamel health between appointments.

Is the Treatment Suitable for Everyone?

Our in-chair teeth whitening procedure is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children under the age of 14.

If you have active gum disease or significant untreated decay, we recommend addressing those with your dentist before booking a whitening treatment, as inflamed gum tissue can react to the whitening process.

For all other clients, a brief consultation at the start of the appointment allows our technician to assess suitability and recommend the right treatment.

 

How much does teeth whitening cost?

We have a range of packages designed to suit different budgets and results goals.

Our essential package starts from just $179, while our top-tier platinum package is priced at $249. All packages deliver lasting results with professional-grade products

See all our packages and pricing.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

Each treatment runs between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the package you choose.

Our basic package takes 45 minutes per session. The platinum package, which includes additional activation cycles, runs to 60 minutes.

Does treatment fix tetracycline stains?

Our treatment can be effective on staining caused by the antibiotic tetracycline, though results depend on how deeply the staining has penetrated the tooth structure.

Tetracycline stains are generally among the more stubborn to treat. Superficial tetracycline staining tends to respond better than staining that has set deep into the dentine layer over many years.

Our team will assess your specific situation and give you an honest picture of what to expect before you commit to treatment.

Does treatment fix stains from smoking?

Yes. Smoking stains can be slightly more persistent than surface staining from food and drink, but our treatment is effective for them.

Nicotine and tar tend to bond to enamel over time, so multiple sessions or a higher-tier package may produce better results for heavy smokers.

How Quickly Will I See Results?

Your teeth will be visibly whiter within one hour of your treatment.

This makes PureSmile a practical option if you have an upcoming event, function, or meeting and want a fast, reliable result without weeks of waiting. Same-day results are one of the reasons in-chair professional whitening consistently outperforms at-home alternatives.

Are there any side effects?

No. There are no known side effects from getting your teeth whitened at PureSmile because our products are formulated to be gentle on enamel and soft tissue.

Some clients with particularly sensitive teeth may notice mild, temporary sensitivity in the hours following treatment. This is normal and typically resolves within 24 hours.

How can I retain my results?

To keep your teeth whiter for longer after treatment, clean your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Avoiding coffee, black tea, red wine, and smoking will make the biggest difference to how long your results hold.

Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming staining food or drinks is also a simple habit that helps reduce the contact time between staining substances and your enamel.

Are PureSmile Products Cruelty-Free?

Yes, all PureSmile products and services are cruelty-free.

  • Our teeth whitening products are not tested on animals.
  • Our manufacturers do not test on animals (ingredients and finished products).
  • Our products are not sold in markets requiring animal testing by local law and regulations (Mainland China, Brazil, etc).

What is the difference between Cosmetic Teeth Whitening and a Dentist Teeth Whitening treatment?

The key difference lies in the strength of the active ingredient, Hydrogen Peroxide (HP).

Our cosmetic Signature Treatment uses 6% HP, which is the maximum legal strength permitted for over-the-counter cosmetic teeth whitening products in Australia.

PureSmile’s Dentist Teeth Whitening uses 16%, 25%, or 38% HP gel, among the strongest available in the industry. The treating dentist selects the appropriate concentration based on each client’s sensitivity profile during consultation.

Cosmetic whitening delivers excellent results for most clients. The dentist range produces a more bleached appearance and is generally recommended for teeth with heavier staining or significant discolouration.

Do I Need Dental Cleaning Before My Whitening Treatment?

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends professional dental cleaning every six months.

We strongly recommend completing a dental cleaning before your whitening appointment if you’re due for one. Clean enamel allows the whitening gel to penetrate more evenly, which produces a better and longer-lasting result.

Plaque and tartar can act as a barrier to the whitening gel, so removing them beforehand directly improves the outcome.

How Do I Know I’m Choosing the Right Treatment?

You do not need to work this out before you arrive.

At your consultation, our technician will assess your current shade, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable package. You can also change your treatment package on the day of your appointment if your preferences shift after consultation.

Is Teeth Whitening Suitable for Sensitive Teeth?

Teeth whitening can work well for people with sensitive teeth, but individual assessment matters. At PureSmile, our peroxide-free formula is specifically chosen to minimise sensitivity responses.

We may recommend using a desensitising toothpaste in the days leading up to your appointment, and in some cases, we’ll suggest shorter sessions or a milder protocol to keep you comfortable throughout.

A consultation before treatment is the best starting point for anyone with known tooth sensitivity.

Is There a Limit to How Often I Can Whiten My Teeth?

Teeth whitening is safe when done correctly, but it is possible to overdo it. We recommend professional in-chair whitening no more than once or twice a year, with touch-up sessions as needed based on individual results.

Excessive whitening, particularly with high-strength peroxide products used too frequently, can contribute to enamel sensitivity and surface wear over time.

Between professional appointments, good oral hygiene and a whitening toothpaste will help you maintain your results without putting unnecessary strain on your enamel.

Is teeth whitening covered by health insurance?

Teeth whitening is generally classified as a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by most Australian health insurance plans.

Standard dental insurance typically excludes cosmetic treatments outright. However, there are some exceptions. If discolouration is linked to a medical condition or injury, partial coverage may apply under certain policies. Some private health insurance extras cover, and dental discount plans may also offer reduced rates for whitening services.

Can I Get Teeth Whitening If I Have Fillings?

Absolutely! Whitening treatments work on natural tooth enamel, so fillings, crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations will not change colour during treatment.

This is worth knowing before you book. If your existing dental work is visible when you smile, you may want to discuss with your dentist whether replacing it to match your new shade makes sense for you.

Consult with your dentist to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Does Teeth Whitening Help with Gum Disease?

Teeth whitening does not treat or improve gum disease. If you have active gum disease, it’s important to address that with your dentist before undertaking any whitening procedure.

Whitening products can irritate already inflamed gum tissue and potentially worsen symptoms if the underlying condition hasn’t been managed first.

Can I combine teeth whitening with other dental procedures?

Combining tooth whitening with other dental procedures is possible, and the order in which you do things matters.

For restorative work like fillings or crowns, it’s generally best to complete those first so colour matching is done against your whitened shade. For cosmetic work like veneers, whitening typically happens first so the veneers can be matched to your new baseline.

Talk to your dentist to create a sequenced treatment plan that addresses everything in the most effective order for your situation.

What Should I Do Before My Teeth Whitening Treatment?

Before your appointment, have a professional dental cleaning if you’re due for one. Address any existing dental issues like cavities or gum inflammation, and brush and floss thoroughly the morning of your session.

Try to avoid consuming heavily staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine, and tomato-based sauces, in the 24 to 48 hours before treatment.

Can I brush my teeth after whitening?

It’s generally recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after your whitening session before brushing.

This allows time for your enamel to remineralise and for the microscopic pores opened during the whitening process to close.

When you brush, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with lukewarm water and skip the toothpaste for that first clean. Some whitening toothpastes contain abrasives that can be harsh on freshly treated enamel.

How does PureSmile ensure consistent results across different clinics?

PureSmile maintains consistency across all locations through standardised training, equipment, and product formulations.

All our technicians undergo rigorous training in our whitening procedures and techniques.

We use the same proprietary whitening formulas and advanced LED equipment across every clinic in our network, and conduct regular quality audits to make sure all locations are operating to the same standard.

Whichever PureSmile location you visit, the process and the quality of your results will be the same.

Ready to Book?

If you’ve got a question that isn’t covered above, our team is easy to reach and happy to help before you commit to anything.

PureSmile clinics are located across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, and more.

Check your nearest clinic and explore treatments and pricing.

Looking for a whiter smile?

You have come to the right place. 

Here at PureSmile, we are teeth whitening specialists with a genuine difference—the kind that shows up in your results, not just our marketing. We have the expertise to make teeth noticeably whiter using treatments that are safe, professionally administered, and built to last.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, a job interview, or simply want to feel more confident in your own smile, our team is here to walk you through every step.

We get a lot of questions before people book their first appointment, so we’ve put together this page to answer the most common ones honestly and clearly.

How Does the Process Work?

Here is how a standard in-chair treatment at PureSmile works:

  1. One of our professionally trained technicians will assess your initial shade so we have a baseline to measure your results against.
  2. Our activation spray is then applied to your teeth using a sponge brush. This pre-treatment step prepares the enamel for the whitening gel that follows.
  3. Your mouth tray will be filled with our custom-formulated gel. All our technicians undergo extensive training so the gel is placed correctly in the tray for maximum coverage and results. 
  4. From there, you sit back, put on your protective glasses, and we apply our dental-grade LED light to activate the whitening process.
  5. Every 15 minutes, we repeat this cycle to achieve multiple activations of the gel, giving you the best outcome possible within a single session.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Absolutely. Our standard cosmetic treatments utilise a gentle, compliant formula designed to maximise safety while carrying zero known side effects. They are custom-made, registered with the Food and Drug Administration in the USA, and fully compliant with EU cosmetic standards. Safety is genuinely central to how we formulate and apply every product we use.

How Many Shades Whiter Can My Teeth Get?

Results vary from person to person depending on individual physiology, starting shade, and the nature of the staining present.

Our customers regularly achieve up to 11 shades whiter, with an average improvement of 6 to 8 shades. We use cosmetic whitening products specifically designed to bring your teeth to their personal best colour, not a one-size-fits-all standard.

How white your teeth can get also depends on whether you have surface staining from lifestyle habits like coffee or smoking, or deeper intrinsic staining from medications or aging. Both can be addressed, though results will differ.

How long will my results last?

Most people find that touching up their whitening every 6 to 9 months works well for maintaining brightness.

That said, how long your results last depends on the level of staining on your enamel when you started, and how your eating and drinking habits sit afterwards. Steer clear of coffee, black tea, red wine, and smoking if you want your results to hold as long as possible.

Using an enamel booster after your treatment is something we also recommend. It helps seal in the results and supports overall enamel health between appointments.

Is the Treatment Suitable for Everyone?

Our in-chair teeth whitening procedure is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children under the age of 14.

If you have active gum disease or significant untreated decay, we recommend addressing those with your dentist before booking a whitening treatment, as inflamed gum tissue can react to the whitening process.

For all other clients, a brief consultation at the start of the appointment allows our technician to assess suitability and recommend the right treatment.

 

How much does teeth whitening cost?

We have a range of packages designed to suit different budgets and results goals.

Our essential package starts from just $179, while our top-tier platinum package is priced at $249. All packages deliver lasting results with professional-grade products

See all our packages and pricing.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

Each treatment runs between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the package you choose.

Our basic package takes 45 minutes per session. The platinum package, which includes additional activation cycles, runs to 60 minutes.

Does treatment fix tetracycline stains?

Our treatment can be effective on staining caused by the antibiotic tetracycline, though results depend on how deeply the staining has penetrated the tooth structure.

Tetracycline stains are generally among the more stubborn to treat. Superficial tetracycline staining tends to respond better than staining that has set deep into the dentine layer over many years.

Our team will assess your specific situation and give you an honest picture of what to expect before you commit to treatment.

Does treatment fix stains from smoking?

Yes. Smoking stains can be slightly more persistent than surface staining from food and drink, but our treatment is effective for them.

Nicotine and tar tend to bond to enamel over time, so multiple sessions or a higher-tier package may produce better results for heavy smokers.

How Quickly Will I See Results?

Your teeth will be visibly whiter within one hour of your treatment.

This makes PureSmile a practical option if you have an upcoming event, function, or meeting and want a fast, reliable result without weeks of waiting. Same-day results are one of the reasons in-chair professional whitening consistently outperforms at-home alternatives.

Are there any side effects?

No. There are no known side effects from getting your teeth whitened at PureSmile because our products are formulated to be gentle on enamel and soft tissue.

Some clients with particularly sensitive teeth may notice mild, temporary sensitivity in the hours following treatment. This is normal and typically resolves within 24 hours.

How can I retain my results?

To keep your teeth whiter for longer after treatment, clean your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Avoiding coffee, black tea, red wine, and smoking will make the biggest difference to how long your results hold.

Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming staining food or drinks is also a simple habit that helps reduce the contact time between staining substances and your enamel.

Are PureSmile Products Cruelty-Free?

Yes, all PureSmile products and services are cruelty-free.

  • Our teeth whitening products are not tested on animals.
  • Our manufacturers do not test on animals (ingredients and finished products).
  • Our products are not sold in markets requiring animal testing by local law and regulations (Mainland China, Brazil, etc).

What is the difference between Cosmetic Teeth Whitening and a Dentist Teeth Whitening treatment?

The key difference lies in the strength of the active ingredient, Hydrogen Peroxide (HP).

Our cosmetic Signature Treatment uses 6% HP, which is the maximum legal strength permitted for over-the-counter cosmetic teeth whitening products in Australia.

PureSmile’s Dentist Teeth Whitening uses 16%, 25%, or 38% HP gel, among the strongest available in the industry. The treating dentist selects the appropriate concentration based on each client’s sensitivity profile during consultation.

Cosmetic whitening delivers excellent results for most clients. The dentist range produces a more bleached appearance and is generally recommended for teeth with heavier staining or significant discolouration.

Do I Need Dental Cleaning Before My Whitening Treatment?

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends professional dental cleaning every six months.

We strongly recommend completing a dental cleaning before your whitening appointment if you’re due for one. Clean enamel allows the whitening gel to penetrate more evenly, which produces a better and longer-lasting result.

Plaque and tartar can act as a barrier to the whitening gel, so removing them beforehand directly improves the outcome.

How Do I Know I’m Choosing the Right Treatment?

You do not need to work this out before you arrive.

At your consultation, our technician will assess your current shade, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable package. You can also change your treatment package on the day of your appointment if your preferences shift after consultation.

Is Teeth Whitening Suitable for Sensitive Teeth?

Teeth whitening can work well for people with sensitive teeth, but individual assessment matters. At PureSmile, our peroxide-free formula is specifically chosen to minimise sensitivity responses.

We may recommend using a desensitising toothpaste in the days leading up to your appointment, and in some cases, we’ll suggest shorter sessions or a milder protocol to keep you comfortable throughout.

A consultation before treatment is the best starting point for anyone with known tooth sensitivity.

Is There a Limit to How Often I Can Whiten My Teeth?

Teeth whitening is safe when done correctly, but it is possible to overdo it. We recommend professional in-chair whitening no more than once or twice a year, with touch-up sessions as needed based on individual results.

Excessive whitening, particularly with high-strength peroxide products used too frequently, can contribute to enamel sensitivity and surface wear over time.

Between professional appointments, good oral hygiene and a whitening toothpaste will help you maintain your results without putting unnecessary strain on your enamel.

Is teeth whitening covered by health insurance?

Teeth whitening is generally classified as a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by most Australian health insurance plans.

Standard dental insurance typically excludes cosmetic treatments outright. However, there are some exceptions. If discolouration is linked to a medical condition or injury, partial coverage may apply under certain policies. Some private health insurance extras cover, and dental discount plans may also offer reduced rates for whitening services.

Can I Get Teeth Whitening If I Have Fillings?

Absolutely! Whitening treatments work on natural tooth enamel, so fillings, crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations will not change colour during treatment.

This is worth knowing before you book. If your existing dental work is visible when you smile, you may want to discuss with your dentist whether replacing it to match your new shade makes sense for you.

Consult with your dentist to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Does Teeth Whitening Help with Gum Disease?

Teeth whitening does not treat or improve gum disease. If you have active gum disease, it’s important to address that with your dentist before undertaking any whitening procedure.

Whitening products can irritate already inflamed gum tissue and potentially worsen symptoms if the underlying condition hasn’t been managed first.

Can I combine teeth whitening with other dental procedures?

Combining tooth whitening with other dental procedures is possible, and the order in which you do things matters.

For restorative work like fillings or crowns, it’s generally best to complete those first so colour matching is done against your whitened shade. For cosmetic work like veneers, whitening typically happens first so the veneers can be matched to your new baseline.

Talk to your dentist to create a sequenced treatment plan that addresses everything in the most effective order for your situation.

What Should I Do Before My Teeth Whitening Treatment?

Before your appointment, have a professional dental cleaning if you’re due for one. Address any existing dental issues like cavities or gum inflammation, and brush and floss thoroughly the morning of your session.

Try to avoid consuming heavily staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine, and tomato-based sauces, in the 24 to 48 hours before treatment.

Can I brush my teeth after whitening?

It’s generally recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after your whitening session before brushing.

This allows time for your enamel to remineralise and for the microscopic pores opened during the whitening process to close.

When you brush, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with lukewarm water and skip the toothpaste for that first clean. Some whitening toothpastes contain abrasives that can be harsh on freshly treated enamel.

How does PureSmile ensure consistent results across different clinics?

PureSmile maintains consistency across all locations through standardised training, equipment, and product formulations.

All our technicians undergo rigorous training in our whitening procedures and techniques.

We use the same proprietary whitening formulas and advanced LED equipment across every clinic in our network, and conduct regular quality audits to make sure all locations are operating to the same standard.

Whichever PureSmile location you visit, the process and the quality of your results will be the same.

Ready to Book?

If you’ve got a question that isn’t covered above, our team is easy to reach and happy to help before you commit to anything.

PureSmile clinics are located across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, and more.

Check your nearest clinic and explore treatments and pricing.