We whiten
Dental whitening lightens some natural tooth discoloration by using a peroxide-based gel, after the teeth and gums have been examined..
The short answer
Dental whitening lightens some natural tooth discoloration by using a peroxide-based gel, after the teeth and gums have been examined.
How does whitening gel break down some tooth stains?
The gel can pass through enamel and dentin and chemically break down some stain molecules. It does not whiten fillings, crowns, veneers, or bonding, and a dentist should first check for decay, cracks, gum inflammation, and exposed root surfaces.
What should you do before using a whitening product?
Have a dental examination and cleaning when indicated, then follow the selected product instructions exactly. Reduce sensitivity triggers temporarily and keep the gel away from the gums; stop and contact the dental team if marked irritation occurs.
When should tooth discolouration be assessed first?
Seek care before whitening if you have tooth pain, untreated decay, gum disease, cracks, or unexplained color change. Dental review is also needed when whitening causes persistent sensitivity or gum injury.
What should you ask about whitening results and sensitivity?
Ask what is causing the discoloration, whether restorations will mismatch, which gel concentration and tray design are planned, and how sensitivity will be managed.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.