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Cosmetic dentistry

Teeth whitening

Lightening the colour of the teeth with whitening gels applied under a dentist's supervision. On this page we explain who it may suit, the in-clinic and at-home methods, and what to keep in mind afterwards.

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Beyazlatma plağı ve diş bakım ürünleri (temsilî görsel)
On this page
  1. In brief
  2. What is Teeth whitening?
  3. Who may it suit?
  4. Step-by-step process
  5. Aftercare
  6. Possible risks and precautions
  7. Frequently asked questions
  8. Related treatments and articles

In brief

In clinic
Usually 1 session, 60–90 minutes
At home
Usually 1–2 weeks
Anaesthesia
Not needed
Afterwards
Avoid coloured food for 48 hours

Durations are general information and vary from person to person. Your own timeline is written in your treatment plan after the examination.

What is Teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening aims to lighten the colour of the teeth without harming their structure. A whitening gel applied to the surface of the tooth breaks down pigments that have settled into the enamel.

There are two methods: in in-clinic whitening, a stronger gel is applied after the gums are protected, and it is usually completed in one session. In at-home whitening, a lower-strength gel is used with clear trays made for your teeth, for the period your dentist sets. Sometimes the two methods are combined.

Whitening only affects the colour of natural teeth; the colour of artificial surfaces such as fillings, crowns and veneers does not change. The shade that can be reached varies from person to person depending on the tooth.

Who may it suit?

Usually considered

  • Adults whose teeth have darkened from tea, coffee or smoking
  • People whose teeth have yellowed with age
  • People with healthy teeth and gums
  • People without large fillings or crowns on their front teeth
  • People who want to lighten neighbouring teeth before a crown

Further assessment may be needed

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (usually postponed)
  • Under 18s
  • Marked tooth sensitivity or exposed root surfaces
  • Untreated decay or gum disease
  • Dark staining related to medicines or tooth development (results may be limited)

The teeth are examined before whitening; if there is decay, gum disease or tartar, these are treated first.

Step-by-step process

  1. Examination

    The teeth and gums are examined and the cause of the discolouration is assessed. If needed, the teeth are cleaned first.

  2. Starting shade

    The current shade of your teeth is recorded; the achievable result and the methods are explained to you.

  3. In-clinic application

    The gums are covered with a protective material, and the whitening gel is applied to the teeth and renewed at intervals.

  4. At-home application (if chosen)

    Clear trays are made for your teeth; how and for how long to use the gel is explained.

  5. Check-up

    The result and any sensitivity are checked; the application is adjusted if needed.

Aftercare

The first 48 hours

  • Avoid dark-coloured food and drink such as tea, coffee, cola, red wine, sour cherry juice and tomato paste.
  • Do not smoke.
  • If you have sensitivity, you can use the desensitising toothpaste your dentist recommends; avoid very cold and very hot food.

In the long term

How long the colour lasts depends on diet and oral care. Regular brushing and professional cleaning help. Over time the colour may return to some extent; if your dentist considers it suitable, a short repeat application can be done.

Possible risks and precautions

The possible side effects of whitening are explained to you at the examination.

  • The teeth may be sensitive during and for a few days after the application; this usually passes on its own.
  • If the gel touches the gum, temporary irritation and whitening of the gum may occur.
  • Because fillings and crowns do not change colour, a difference may appear between them and natural teeth; they may need to be replaced.
  • Results vary from person to person; with some stains the expected lightness may not be reached.
  • Products used without a dentist’s supervision or for longer than recommended may harm the teeth and gums.

Frequently asked questions

In-clinic or at-home whitening?

In-clinic whitening usually gives a result in one session; at-home whitening takes longer but uses a lower-strength gel. Sometimes both are combined. Which one suits you is discussed at the examination.

Will my fillings and crowns whiten too?

No. Whitening only affects the colour of natural teeth. Fillings or crowns on front teeth may need to be replaced after whitening to match the new shade.

Will I have sensitivity after whitening?

You may. It usually eases within a few days. Your dentist may recommend a desensitising toothpaste or a shorter application time.

Can I use whitening products sold in shops?

These products differ in content and use; incorrect use can cause sensitivity and gum irritation. We recommend asking your dentist before using them.

Related treatments and articles

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