Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that lightens the color of the teeth by removing surface stains and breaking down deeper discoloration within the enamel. It can be done in a dental office using a higher-strength bleaching gel, or at home with custom trays and a lower-strength gel used over several days.

In-office teeth whitening uses a professional-strength bleaching gel applied directly to the teeth, sometimes activated with a special light. Because the concentration is higher than at-home options, results are typically visible in about an hour, all in a single appointment.

At-home teeth whitening typically involves custom-fitted trays filled with a bleaching gel, worn for a set amount of time each day over one to two weeks. This gradual method still lightens the teeth effectively, just over a longer period than in-office treatment.

Teeth whitening is not typically painful, though some patients notice mild tooth sensitivity or slight gum irritation during treatment. This discomfort is usually temporary and resolves on its own within a day or two after the whitening session ends.

A good candidate for teeth whitening generally has healthy teeth and gums, with stains caused by food, drinks, or aging rather than by an underlying dental problem. Whitening doesn't work on veneers, crowns, or fillings, so those with existing restorations may need a different treatment for a consistent look.

Teeth whitening can typically be repeated every six months to a year, depending on how quickly stains return and how the teeth respond to treatment. Overusing whitening treatments too frequently can increase the risk of sensitivity, so spacing them out is generally recommended.

Teeth whitening is often combined with other cosmetic treatments as part of a larger smile makeover. It's commonly done before veneers or bonding so the new restorations can be matched to the newly whitened, brighter shade of the natural teeth.