Teeth whitening
Lightening the natural colour of your teeth with a method supervised by the dentist.
What it is
Whitening uses a gel that lightens the colour of the teeth through the enamel. It works on natural teeth, not on fillings, crowns or veneers. The dentist first checks your teeth and gums and tells you what result you can reasonably expect.
How it usually goes
- 1The dentist checks your teeth and gums before whitening.
- 2A scaling may be done first to remove tartar and stains.
- 3Your gums are protected and the whitening gel is applied.
- 4You receive advice to keep the result longer.
Frequently asked questions
Does whitening damage the teeth?
Done on healthy teeth under a dentist's supervision, whitening is considered safe for the enamel. Temporary sensitivity can occur.
Will my fillings or crowns whiten too?
No, whitening only works on natural teeth. The dentist tells you whether any of them may need adjusting afterwards to match the shade.
How long does the result last?
It varies with your habits, such as coffee, tea and tobacco. Good brushing and regular check-ups help the result last longer.
This page is general information and does not replace an examination by a dentist.
Related treatments
Questions about this treatment?
Book a consultation: the dentist examines you and explains the options for your situation.