Professional whitening system
Professional whitening uses a dentist-selected peroxide gel and controlled application after checking teeth, gums, restorations, and sensitivity.
The short answer
A professional whitening system uses a dentist-selected peroxide gel with controlled application after the teeth, gums, restorations, and causes of discoloration have been assessed.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide breaks down stain molecules within natural tooth structure. A system may be delivered in the clinic, at home with custom trays, or as a planned combination, but crowns, veneers, and fillings do not whiten in the same way as enamel.
What can you do next?
Start with an examination and cleaning so decay, cracked teeth, leaking restorations, gum disease, and sensitivity are addressed before whitening. Follow the prescribed gel amount and wear time, and report sharp sensitivity or gum irritation rather than increasing the dose.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek an assessment for a single dark tooth, internal discoloration, pain, cavities, or gum inflammation before using whitening gel. Contact the dentist if sensitivity is severe, prolonged, or focused in one tooth.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which type of discoloration you have, whether existing restorations will match afterward, and whether trays or in-office application suit you better. Ask how to use the gel, manage sensitivity, and maintain the shade.
Frequently asked questions
Does professional whitening change crowns?
No. It can lighten natural teeth around a restoration, which may make a color mismatch more visible.
Why do gums sting during whitening?
Gel touching the gum margin can irritate it; stop the exposure and ask the dentist to adjust the fit or application.