Get teeth cleaned and whitened

A cleaning removes plaque and calculus first; whitening can then lighten eligible natural teeth after the dentist checks them.

Scaling removes hardened deposits with ultrasonic and hand instruments, while peroxide whitening changes natural tooth color.

Have an examination and cleaning, then choose in-office gel or a custom take-home tray if no treatment must come first.

Pain, swelling, untreated cavities, or broken teeth should be treated before cosmetic whitening.

Ask whether both procedures should be staged and how restorations will affect the shade.