What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a treatment that lightens the colour of natural teeth. The shade change you get can differ from person to person; starting shade, the cause of discolouration and any existing restorations all affect the outcome.
Suitability is decided after examining the health of your teeth and gums. Imaging is considered only when it helps the clinical plan. Active decay or gum problems are addressed first. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss aesthetic whitening with your dentist.
How it differs from dental scaling
Dental Scaling removes plaque and calculus and may improve some surface stains. It is not the same as whitening that lightens natural tooth colour. Cleaning may be planned before whitening for some patients; it is not an automatic step for everyone.
In-clinic and dentist-supervised home use
In-clinic whitening is carried out under the dentist’s control. Gel may be applied while the gums are protected. Depending on the system used, whitening may be done with light or without light. In-office whitening does not necessarily mean a laser is used.
Dentist-supervised home whitening follows a plan and products recommended by your dentist. This is not the same as every over-the-counter product; product choice and suitability should be discussed with your dentist. Homemade mixtures (for example lemon, baking soda or charcoal) are not recommended and may harm teeth and gums.
Which approach suits you is decided at examination. One method is not presented as better for every patient.
Fillings, bonding, veneers and crowns
Composite Composite Filling, Composite Bonding (Direct Composite Veneer), Porcelain Laminate Veneer and Zirconia Crown do not lighten like natural teeth. After whitening, a shade difference with existing restorations may appear; harmony is assessed separately. If a new restoration is planned, sequence and shade matching are arranged at examination.
A single darkened tooth
When one tooth has darkened, the cause needs to be identified; the right approach may differ from whitening applied to all teeth. Options are discussed at examination.
Sensitivity, care and results
Temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can occur. Contact your dentist if symptoms are severe or ongoing.
Results vary between people. Regular oral care, reviews and following the use schedule you were given can help maintain shade. Coloured drinks and tobacco habits may affect appearance over time.
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