Treatment overview
A professionally supervised way to brighten natural teeth
Tooth colour can change over time because of ageing, tea, coffee, tobacco, dietary pigments and individual enamel and dentine characteristics. Professional whitening is designed to reduce eligible discolouration using peroxide-based gels at concentrations selected for controlled dental use.
Not every type of discolouration responds in the same way. Existing crowns, veneers and fillings do not whiten like natural enamel, so a shade assessment and oral-health check are important before treatment.
Assessment
When whitening may be appropriate
General yellowing or darkening of natural teeth
Surface and dietary staining after professional cleaning
A desire to brighten the smile before cosmetic restorative treatment
Patients with healthy teeth and gums who are suitable for peroxide-based whitening
People who understand that fillings, crowns and veneers will not change shade
Why patients consider it
Key benefits
Whitening changes tooth shade without removing healthy tooth structure.
Gums, restorations and sensitivity risks are assessed before treatment.
Depending on the case, in-clinic, take-home or combined protocols may be considered.
A lighter tooth shade can refresh the overall appearance of the smile.
Step by step
Your treatment journey
Dental assessment
Teeth and gums are checked, existing restorations are noted and the type of discolouration is assessed.
Shade recording
A starting shade and desired realistic outcome are discussed.
Whitening protocol
In-clinic gel, custom take-home trays or a combined approach may be selected.
Review
Final shade, sensitivity and any need to coordinate future restorations are reviewed.
Long-term success
Care and aftercare
Whitening results vary and can gradually fade as teeth are exposed to staining foods and drinks.
- Follow the tray and gel instructions exactly if using a home system
- Limit heavily staining foods, drinks and tobacco soon after whitening
- Use sensitivity toothpaste if advised
- Maintain regular hygiene visits and good daily oral care
Common questions
Teeth Whitening FAQ
How white will my teeth become?
The amount of lightening varies with the starting shade and type of discolouration. Your dentist can explain a realistic range after examination.
Does whitening affect crowns or veneers?
No. Existing ceramic or composite restorations generally do not change colour, which may affect treatment sequencing.
Can whitening cause sensitivity?
Temporary sensitivity can occur. The whitening concentration, wear time and desensitising strategies can be adjusted to improve comfort.