Smile and aesthetics
Teeth Whitening
Whitening uses peroxide-based gels to lighten the colour of natural teeth. Before treatment the cause of the discolouration, any decay or gum problems and existing fillings or crowns are assessed, because restorations do not change colour with whitening.
- Method
- In the practice or at home with custom trays
- Active agent
- Hydrogen or carbamide peroxide
- Common side effect
- Temporary sensitivity
- How long it lasts
- Depends on diet and habits
What is it?
Whitening gels penetrate the tooth and break down colour molecules. In the practice, the gel is applied to the teeth while the gums are protected. At home, custom trays made from a digital scan are worn as directed by your dentist.
For your safety, professional whitening gels are used within set concentration limits and only under a dentist’s supervision. The first application of each course takes place at the practice, and whitening is not offered to anyone under 18.
Sensitivity is the most common side effect. It is usually mild and temporary and settles within days. Some people also notice gum irritation. Yellowish shades tend to respond well, while brownish or grey shades may respond less. Because fillings, veneers and crowns do not change colour, whitening is often the first step in a smile design plan.
When can it be considered?
- Staining from tea, coffee or smoking
- Teeth that have darkened with age
- Lightening natural teeth before veneers, bonding or crowns are matched
Examination and planning
An examination comes first. Untreated decay, gum disease or exposed root surfaces are dealt with before whitening. Whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding or for anyone under 18.
Your starting shade is recorded with photographs and the cause of the discolouration is assessed. Some internal discolouration responds only partly, in which case other options are discussed. If visible teeth have fillings or crowns, the colour difference that may appear after whitening is planned for in advance.
How the process works
Examination and shade
Suitability is assessed and the starting shade recorded.
Cleaning
Scaling is done first if needed.
Whitening
Gel is applied in the practice and/or home trays are provided.
Review
Colour and sensitivity are reviewed and the plan adjusted if needed.
Digital tools that may be used
- Shade records
- Starting and final shades are photographed under standard conditions.
- Intraoral scan
- A digital scan can replace impression trays when making home-whitening trays.
- Digital model
- Custom trays are made on models produced from the scan.
Aftercare
Recommended
- Use the recommended desensitising toothpaste if teeth feel sensitive
- Do not wear trays longer than advised
- Cut back on dark drinks in the first few days
Best avoided
- High-strength products bought online or over the counter
- Carrying on with whitening while sensitivity persists
Whether a treatment suits you can only be decided after an examination. Timelines and stages vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Is teeth whitening harmful?
Whitening at appropriate concentrations under a dentist’s supervision is generally safe. Temporary sensitivity is the most common effect. We choose the method that suits your teeth and sensitivity and keep an eye on you throughout.
How long do the results last?
It depends on diet, smoking and home care; results can last from a few months to a few years. Short top-up courses can be done under supervision when needed.
Will my fillings and veneers whiten too?
No. Composite fillings, veneers and crowns do not change colour with whitening. If visible teeth are restored, a separate plan may be needed to match colours afterwards.
What if my teeth become sensitive?
Sensitivity usually settles within a few days. Pausing treatment and using the recommended toothpaste often helps. If it persists, simply let the practice know.
Related articles
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How Digital Smile Design Works: Process, Mock-Up and Realistic Expectations
Digital smile design is a way of planning treatment, not a treatment in itself. This guide walks through photos, scans and the in-mouth mock-up, and explains what a digital design can and cannot show.
Related treatments
All treatments- incisors, caninesSmile DesignA planning process that looks at tooth colour, shape and proportions together with the face and lips, using photographs, an intraoral scan and a trial smile.
- incisors, canines, premolars, molarsGum TreatmentStep-by-step care for inflamed gums and gum disease, from scaling and polishing to subgingival scaling and root planing, a deep clean of the root surfaces.
- incisors, canines, premolarsPorcelain VeneersThin ceramic shells bonded to the visible surface of front teeth, considered for colour, shape and small gaps.
Questions about teeth whitening?
You can send your questions on WhatsApp or reach the practice by phone.