Professional at home teeth whitening
Professional home whitening uses dentist-planned trays and peroxide gel, with fit and concentration chosen after checking your teeth and gums.
The short answer
Professional home whitening uses custom trays made from impressions or scans, filled with a dentist-selected peroxide gel and worn for prescribed periods. The clinician checks for cavities, cracks, gum inflammation, exposed root surfaces, and existing restorations before prescribing it.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The active agents are usually carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which diffuse through enamel and dentin and alter stain molecules. A tray that seals against the gum margin helps keep gel on the teeth and away from soft tissue.
What can you do next?
Have the dentist record your starting shade, examine the tooth surfaces, and make or verify the trays. Use only the prescribed amount, keep gel off the gums, and pause if burning gum pain or marked sensitivity develops.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination before whitening if you have toothache, bleeding or swollen gums, visible holes, or a single dark tooth. Seek prompt care for persistent pain, facial swelling, or a tooth that changed colour after trauma.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the colour change is surface stain, internal discolouration, decay, or a non-vital tooth, and whether fillings, crowns, or veneers will change colour. Ask which gel, tray wear schedule, sensitivity plan, and review appointment fit your mouth.
Frequently asked questions
Can professional home whitening treat one dark tooth?
A single dark tooth may need an examination for trauma, decay, or loss of pulp vitality before whitening is chosen.
Why do my gums sting during whitening?
Gel may be contacting the gum or the tooth may be sensitive; stop the session and ask the prescribing dentist to check the fit and plan.