Up and up whitening strips before and after
Whitening strips can lighten some surface and internal stains, but results vary with enamel, dentine, fillings, and correct use.
How much whitening can strips achieve for different stains?
Whitening strips can lighten some surface and internal stains, but results vary with enamel, dentine, fillings, and correct use.
How do whitening strips place peroxide gel on teeth?
A strip holds a peroxide-based gel against the front surfaces of the teeth. The peroxide moves through enamel and breaks down some stain molecules, while toothpaste cannot alter the colour of dental restorations.
How should you use whitening strips safely at home?
Follow the product directions, keep gel off the gums, and do not extend the contact time. Reduce use or stop if sharp sensitivity or gum irritation develops, and treat decay or leaking fillings before whitening.
When should tooth discolouration be checked by a dentist?
Arrange an examination for pain, visible cavities, cracked enamel, gum sores, or a single dark tooth. A dentist can distinguish external stain from decay, trauma-related colour change, or a restoration that will not bleach.
Which whitening plan suits your teeth and restorations?
Ask whether the discolouration is in enamel or dentine, whether any restorations will mismatch after whitening, and which concentration and wear schedule fit your teeth and gums.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my fillings still a different colour?
Whitening changes natural tooth structure, not the resin, ceramic, or metal in a restoration.
Can I whiten one dark tooth with strips?
A single dark tooth needs an examination because trauma, decay, or loss of pulp vitality may require treatment before cosmetic whitening.
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.