Teeth whitening may be considered by people who want to change the shade of their natural teeth. Whitening options include products used at home and treatments provided or prescribed by a dentist. The suitability and expected shade change vary according to the type of discolouration, oral health and treatment method.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Options
A range of at-home whitening products is available. Products differ in their ingredients, concentration, application method and suitability.
- Whitening toothpaste: Some whitening toothpastes contain abrasive or other ingredients intended to reduce certain surface stains. Their effect differs from bleaching treatments that alter tooth shade.
- Whitening strips: These products contain a whitening agent that is applied to the tooth surfaces for the period specified in the product instructions. Results and suitability vary between individuals.
- Whitening trays: Whitening gel may be used in trays for a specified period according to the product or dental instructions. Tray design, whitening concentration and treatment duration vary.
Considerations With At-Home Whitening
Considerations may include:
- Whitening products differ in concentration and application method
- Shade change varies according to the type of staining and product used
- Poorly fitting trays may result in uneven contact with the teeth or whitening gel contacting the gums
- Tooth sensitivity or gum irritation can occur during or after whitening
Professional Teeth Whitening Options
Professional teeth whitening may involve treatment performed in the dental clinic or a dentist-prescribed take-home whitening system. The concentration, application method and treatment plan vary depending on the approach used.
- In-office whitening: Whitening gel is applied to the teeth under dental supervision according to the treatment system being used. Some systems may also involve additional equipment as part of the procedure. The amount of shade change varies between patients.
- Take-home whitening: A dentist may provide whitening trays and gel for use at home according to individual instructions. The concentration, frequency and duration depend on the treatment plan.
Considerations With Professional Whitening
Considerations may include:
- Whitening suitability depends on the condition of the teeth and gums and the cause of discolouration
- Treatment time varies according to the whitening system used
- Existing restorations such as crowns, veneers and fillings may respond differently from natural tooth structure
- Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can occur
What Factors Affect Whitening Suitability?
Whitening suitability depends on factors such as the type of discolouration, condition of the teeth and gums, existing restorations, sensitivity history and treatment preferences.
- Tooth sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth or have experienced sensitivity during previous whitening, discuss this with your dentist before starting treatment.
- Treatment schedule: Whitening frequency and duration vary according to the treatment system and individual plan.
Discuss Whitening Suitability With Your Dentist
Before whitening, a dentist can assess the teeth and gums, identify factors that may affect treatment suitability and discuss the limitations and potential side effects of the available options.
