Professional teeth whitening results
Professional whitening lightens natural tooth colour with peroxide gel, while fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour.
The short answer
Professional whitening lightens natural tooth colour with peroxide gel, while fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour. The result depends on the original stain, enamel and dentin, gel contact, and whether the discolouration is inside the tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Whitening gel contains a peroxide compound that breaks down stain molecules within enamel and dentin. Surface stains from foods or tobacco may respond differently from intrinsic colour changes caused by trauma, fluorosis, medication or a tooth that has lost pulp vitality.
What can you do next?
Have the teeth, gums, restorations and causes of discolouration examined before whitening. Follow the prescribed gel amount and contact time, use the supplied trays as directed, and reduce strongly coloured foods while early sensitivity settles.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination before whitening if you have untreated decay, cracked enamel, gum inflammation, marked sensitivity or a single dark tooth. Stop the product and seek advice if pain, gum irritation or uneven colour persists.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what caused the colour change, whether existing restorations will mismatch afterwards, and whether a non-vital tooth needs separate treatment. Ask which gel, tray design and contact time are planned for your teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Will whitening change a crown?
No. A crown keeps its existing shade, so it may need replacement if the surrounding natural teeth become lighter.
Why is one tooth still dark?
A single dark tooth may have an internal colour change or loss of pulp vitality and needs examination before treatment.