(I) Aesthetics — No. 03
Teeth Whitening
Let the light come from within.
Brightening the tooth's own colour by a few shades — controlled, and without touching its structure.
At a glance
- In clinic
- Usually 60–90 min
- At home
- 1–3 weeks
- Anaesthesia
- Not needed
- Sensitivity
- Usually temporary
Durations and visit counts are typical values; they vary from person to person and become clear after an examination.
Whitening changes the colour of a tooth, not its surface. Dedicated gels break down the pigments beneath the enamel and brighten the tooth’s own shade — nothing is removed from the tooth.
The goal is not the whitest shade but the right one. A white that agrees with the whites of your eyes, your skin and your lips lights up a face; a white that is too bright separates the smile from it.
Before whitening we check gum health and any existing fillings. Fillings and crowns do not lighten, so the plan starts by setting the shade of the natural teeth first.
Who it is for
- Teeth darkened by coffee, tea or smoking
- Teeth that have yellowed naturally with age
- Anyone setting a reference shade before veneers or fillings
Options
- 01
In-clinic whitening
A higher-concentration gel, applied in one session with the gums protected.
- 02
At-home whitening
Custom-made trays and a lower-concentration gel — gradual and controlled.
- 03
Combined
Brightening begun in the clinic, balanced and maintained with trays at home.
- 04
Single-tooth whitening
Whitening from inside a tooth that has darkened after root canal treatment.
The process
Check
Gum health, decay and existing fillings are assessed; the starting shade is recorded.
Cleaning
Surface stains are removed with a professional clean.
Application
The gel is applied according to the chosen method, with the gums protected.
Review
The new shade is recorded; if needed, whitening continues at home with trays.
—The Dent BB approach
We don’t treat whitening as a race to the brightest white. We choose the right shade together, looking at your face, and keep sensitivity and dose under control.
Honest expectations
- Results vary with the structure of the tooth and the cause of the staining; not every tooth lightens equally.
- Fillings, veneers and crowns do not change colour with whitening.
- The effect is not permanent; depending on habits it may fade and can be refreshed.
- There may be temporary sensitivity; it usually passes within a few days.
Aftercare
- Avoid dark drinks and foods for the first 48 hours
- Stop or reduce smoking
- Use the toothpaste recommended for sensitivity
- Regular professional cleaning
Frequently asked
Does whitening damage the teeth?
Used under a dentist's supervision and at the right concentration, it does not harm the structure of the tooth. Temporary sensitivity can occur.
How long does it last?
It varies. Diet and habits such as smoking decide most of it; an occasional refresh may be needed.
Will my fillings whiten too?
No. The colour of fillings and crowns does not change; if needed they are renewed to match the new shade.
Can I whiten during pregnancy?
Whitening is usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Can I use over-the-counter kits?
Unsupervised products can cause sensitivity and uneven results. Treatment under a dentist's supervision is more predictable.
This page is for information. A diagnosis and a treatment plan require an examination.