What is the direct answer?
Whitening strips and professional whitening use peroxide, but professional treatment is planned around enamel, gums, staining and restorations.
What does this question mean?
Peroxide breaks down colored molecules in enamel and dentin. Crowns, veneers and fillings do not change color like natural teeth.
What can you do next?
Follow product directions and keep gel off the gums; a dentist can check decay, cracks and restorations before choosing trays or in-office whitening.
When should you seek dental care?
Stop and seek advice for severe sensitivity, gum burns, swelling or pain; an isolated dark tooth needs examination first.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what caused the stain, whether whitening is suitable, which restorations will not whiten, and how sensitivity will be managed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the next practical step?
Follow product directions and keep gel off the gums; a dentist can check decay, cracks and restorations before choosing trays or in-office whitening.
When is urgent care needed?
Stop and seek advice for severe sensitivity, gum burns, swelling or pain; an isolated dark tooth needs examination first.

