Colgate optic white professional in office
In-office whitening uses a selected peroxide gel; suitability depends on your teeth, gums, restorations, and sensitivity.
The short answer
Professional in-office whitening is a supervised treatment in which a peroxide gel is applied to eligible natural teeth while the gums and soft tissues are protected. The clinician checks the cause of discoloration and controls the gel contact and exposure according to the chosen system.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
A product name may describe a whitening system or home product, but it does not determine whether in-office treatment is appropriate for you. Whitening changes the color of natural enamel and dentin; fillings, crowns, veneers, and bonding do not lighten in the same way.
What can you do next?
The clinician examines the gums, enamel, decay, cracks, sensitivity, and existing restorations before selecting a gel and protecting the gingiva. Treatment may include cleaning first, isolating the gums, applying gel in stages, rinsing, and checking the shade afterward.
When should you seek dental care?
Have a dental assessment before whitening if you have tooth pain, untreated decay, gum inflammation, exposed roots, enamel defects, or strong sensitivity. Contact the clinic after treatment if pain is severe, lasts, or comes with a gum injury.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what is causing the discoloration, whether the gel is suitable for your teeth and gums, and how existing restorations will look afterward. Ask about expected sensitivity, protective measures, aftercare, and whether a home tray or restorative option better matches your goal.
Frequently asked questions
Will in-office whitening change my fillings?
No. Restorations keep their existing shade, so the dentist plans color matching around them.
Why can whitening cause sensitivity?
Peroxide can temporarily affect fluid movement through tooth tubules, producing short-lived sensitivity in some patients.