Whitening lightens the natural colour of your teeth using a gel applied under a dentist's supervision. Before any whitening we examine your teeth, so that we understand what is causing the discolouration and whether whitening is the right option for you.

What it is

Tooth colour varies from person to person and changes with age. Coffee, tea, red wine and smoking leave stains, and as enamel gradually thins over the years, teeth tend to look more yellow.

Whitening uses a gel containing hydrogen peroxide (or a substance that releases it), which breaks down the stains inside the tooth. In the European Union, whitening products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide may only be supplied to dentists, the first application must be carried out by a dentist or under their direct supervision, and they must not be used on anyone under 18.

Whitening only works on natural teeth. Fillings, crowns, veneers and dentures do not change colour.

When it may be suitable

  • Teeth that have gradually darkened or yellowed over time.
  • Surface stains that do not come off with a professional clean.
  • A single tooth that has darkened after root canal treatment, using a specific internal whitening technique.

Whitening is not right for everyone. Decay, gum inflammation or sensitivity need to be treated first. Some types of discolouration (for example from certain medicines or from enamel developmental defects) respond less well, and another option such as veneers may be more appropriate. Whitening is usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What usually happens

  1. Examination and clean. We check your teeth and gums, treat anything that needs attention and remove surface stains. We record your starting shade.
  2. Choosing a method. We discuss home whitening, in-surgery whitening or a combination.
  3. Home whitening. We take impressions and custom-made clear trays are produced. The first application takes place at the practice. You then wear the trays with the gel at home as instructed, usually for 2 to 6 weeks.
  4. In-surgery whitening. Your gums are protected and a stronger gel is applied for a set time, in a single appointment of around 1–2 hours.
  5. Review. We compare the result with your starting shade. If you have older fillings in your front teeth, they may need replacing to match the new shade, usually about two weeks later.

Afterwards

  • Sensitivity to cold and mild gum irritation are common and usually settle within a few days. Let us know if they bother you.
  • For the first 48 hours, it helps to limit coffee, tea, red wine and smoking.
  • The effect is not permanent. For many people it lasts for years, depending on habits, and a short top-up with the same trays may be needed.
  • Regular professional cleaning helps maintain the shade.

Frequently asked questions

Does whitening damage teeth?

When carried out with products and protocols prescribed by a dentist, whitening is considered safe for enamel. Any sensitivity is usually temporary.

How white will my teeth get?

It depends on your starting shade and the cause of the discolouration, and cannot be predicted precisely in advance. At your examination we will explain what is realistic in your case.

Can I use whitening products from the shops?

Products sold over the counter contain very low concentrations and have a limited effect. Products of unknown origin bought online can irritate the gums or damage the teeth. If you are thinking about whitening, it is best to ask us first.

Will my filling or crown change colour?

No. Restorative materials do not whiten. That is why we discuss beforehand whether any fillings or crowns on visible teeth may need replacing afterwards.

Related treatments

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]

The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. The right treatment for you is decided after a clinical examination.

Appointments and questions: +30 210 6743342 · [email protected]