Teeth naturally darken with age, and stains from coffee, tea, red wine and smoking can add to this. Whitening lightens the natural colour of teeth by using a peroxide-based gel. It does not change the colour of crowns, veneers or fillings.
In-chair whitening
In-chair whitening is done at the practice. Your gums are protected with a barrier and a stronger whitening gel is applied to the teeth for a set time. Some systems use a light as part of the process. It usually takes about an appointment of one to two hours.
Take-home whitening
Your dentist makes custom trays from a scan or impression of your teeth, and you wear them at home with a lower-strength gel for a set number of days. Change is more gradual.
Over-the-counter products
Strips, pens and toothpastes from supermarkets contain lower concentrations of whitening agents. Poorly fitting trays can let gel reach the gums, so follow the instructions carefully.
Before you whiten
A check-up is important. Decay, gum disease, worn enamel or exposed roots should be treated first, and some types of discolouration respond poorly to whitening. The amount of change varies from person to person, and results fade over time.
Side effects
Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common during and shortly after whitening and usually settle within a few days. Tell your dentist if they continue.
Learn more about teeth whitening at North Ryde Dentistry.
Related reading
This article is general information only and does not replace advice from your own dentist. Whether a treatment is suitable for you can only be decided after an examination. All dental treatment carries risks, and results vary from person to person.
Related at North Ryde Dentistry: our North Ryde dental clinic