In office whitening procedure
In-office whitening uses a peroxide gel, gum protection, and controlled application to lighten stains on natural teeth.
The short answer
An in-office whitening procedure uses peroxide gel placed on isolated natural teeth by a dental professional to lighten tooth colour. The clinician controls contact with the gums, removes the gel between applications, and checks the result.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Peroxide breaks down into reactive molecules that alter stain compounds within enamel and dentin. The procedure changes natural tooth colour, but it does not recolour fillings, crowns, bridges, or veneers.
What can you do next?
The clinic examines the teeth and gums, records a starting shade, treats active disease, and protects the soft tissues before applying gel. Afterward, follow the clinic's instructions and report sensitivity or gum irritation.
When should you seek dental care?
Have an examination before whitening if you have decay, cracks, exposed roots, gum inflammation, or tooth pain. Contact the clinic when pain is severe, a gum patch turns white and sore, or symptoms do not settle.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what is causing the colour change, whether restorations will need replacement for a colour match, and which concentration and isolation method fit your teeth. Ask how sensitivity will be managed.
Frequently asked questions
Does whitening remove decay?
No. Decay requires restorative care after the dentist removes the damaged tissue; whitening does not repair it.
Why is a shade check useful?
It gives the clinician a consistent baseline for judging natural tooth colour and matching future restorations.