Teeth Whitening

In plain English

What a teeth whitening involves

Professional teeth whitening lightens the color of natural teeth using a peroxide-based bleaching gel that is stronger than anything sold for home use. The gel releases oxygen that passes into the enamel and breaks up the colored compounds lodged there, the residue of years of coffee, tea, red wine or tobacco, or simply the yellowing that comes with age. Because the gel is strong enough to irritate soft tissue, the gums and lips are covered with a protective barrier first, and a dental professional controls how long the gel stays on. The result shows as soon as the gel is rinsed away. It helps to know the limits. Whitening changes only natural tooth structure, so fillings, crowns and veneers stay the shade they were. Yellowish stains respond better than gray ones. And the effect fades gradually, faster if the habits that caused the staining continue. Nothing is drilled or altered, so sensitivity and re-staining are the only real aftereffects.

1. 01

   Exam and starting shade

   The dentist checks for cavities, cracks, gum recession and existing fillings or crowns on the front teeth, since these affect comfort and the final match. Your current shade is recorded against a shade guide, often with a photo.

2. 02

   Cleaning the teeth

   Plaque and surface film are polished off so the gel touches enamel directly. If there is tartar, a full cleaning is usually done beforehand.

3. 03

   Protecting the gums and lips

   A retractor holds the lips and cheeks away from the teeth, and a barrier material is painted along the gum line and hardened with a light so the gel cannot reach the gums.

4. 04

   Applying the whitening gel

   Gel is spread over the front surfaces of the teeth and left for a set time, then suctioned off and replaced. Several rounds are typical, with the teeth checked between each.

5. 05

   Activating light, in some offices

   Some systems shine a special light on the gel during each round. Others rely on the gel alone. Tell the staff if you feel sharp zings in a tooth, so they can shorten or stop a round.

6. 06

   Rinse and compare

   The gel and barrier are removed, the teeth are rinsed, and the new shade is compared with the starting one. You are then given aftercare advice on sensitivity and on staining foods and drinks.

Who it is usually for

Whitening is usually suited to adults with healthy teeth and gums whose teeth are stained by coffee, tea, wine or tobacco, or are naturally yellow, and who want a quicker change than home products give. People often choose it before a special occasion. A dentist may advise against it, or suggest waiting, if you have untreated cavities, exposed roots, very sensitive teeth, or are pregnant. If your front teeth carry visible fillings or crowns, those will not lighten and may need replacing to match. Alternatives include custom trays from the dentist for whitening gradually at home, and bonding or veneers for discoloration that bleaching cannot change.

Fig. 2 — What to expect

What to Expect During Teeth Whitening

1. 01Teeth cleaned before treatment
2. 02Gums protected with barrier
3. 03Whitening gel applied to teeth
4. 04Special light may be used to activate gel
5. 05Results visible immediately

Before you agree to it

Questions to ask about your teeth whitening

Table 1 — Common reasons

When You Might Need Teeth Whitening

• ARemoving stains from coffee, tea, or wine
• BBrightening naturally yellow teeth
• CSpecial occasions
• DBoosting confidence

Table 2 — Recovery after Teeth Whitening

Recovery After Teeth Whitening

When can you resume normal activities? Here's a quick guide:

Table 3 — Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening