Teeth whitening is a process used to lighten the color of your teeth by removing stains and discoloration. It involves applying a chemical agent, such as Hydrogen Peroxide or Carbamide Peroxide, that breaks down stain-producing chromogens on the surface of your teeth. This procedure is also known as bleaching.
Dental stains are discolorations on the surface of your teeth caused by various factors. They can affect one or multiple teeth and are categorized into two types:
Typically, whitening requires one to three appointments, depending on the severity of the stains and the desired level of whiteness.
For at-home whitening, custom mouthpieces are created based on impressions of your teeth. These are filled with a whitening gel and worn for several hours daily, typically over one to four weeks.
In-office treatments use a more potent whitening gel activated by a special light or laser. This method is faster and provides immediate results, often requiring 30 to 90 minutes per session.
Teeth whitening is effective for natural teeth but does not alter the color of dental prosthetics such as dentures or crowns. It also cannot provide a new color shade but only lightens the existing shade.
If you experience significant discomfort or have questions about the whitening process, consult with your dentist. They can provide personalized advice and help you achieve your desired smile.
Before
After