Teeth Whitening
Brighten your smile with safe, professional teeth whitening treatments
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is like giving your smile a brightness boost. Over time, your teeth can become stained from food, drinks, or habits like smoking. Professional whitening uses special gels that gently break down these stains without damaging your teeth.
Take-home kits provided by your dentist offer gradual whitening with custom-fitted trays. They allow you to whiten at your own pace in the comfort of your home. This treatment can make your teeth several shades brighter, giving you a fresher, more youthful smile.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Take-Home Whitening
Custom-fitted trays with professional-grade whitening gel allow you to whiten at home. Treatment takes 1-2 weeks with gradual, controlled results.
- • Convenient home treatment
- • Gradual, natural results
- • Custom-fitted trays
- • Professional-grade gel
Maintenance Whitening
Regular touch-up treatments help maintain your bright smile. These can be done at home or in the office depending on your preference.
- • Maintains results
- • Prevents re-staining
- • Flexible scheduling
- • Cost-effective maintenance
What Causes Tooth Staining?
Understanding what causes tooth discolouration helps you maintain your whitening results:
Extrinsic Stains (Surface)
- • Coffee, tea, and red wine
- • Dark-coloured foods (berries, soy sauce)
- • Smoking and tobacco use
- • Poor oral hygiene
Intrinsic Stains (Internal)
- • Age-related changes
- • Certain medications
- • Trauma to teeth
- • Excessive fluoride exposure
What Happens During Whitening?
Step 1: Consultation & Examination
Your dentist will examine your teeth to ensure they're healthy enough for whitening. Any cavities or gum disease must be treated first.
Step 2: Professional Cleaning
A thorough dental cleaning removes surface stains and plaque, ensuring the whitening gel can work effectively on your natural tooth colour.
Step 3: Whitening Treatment
For take-home treatment, you'll receive custom trays and professional-grade gel.
Step 4: Results & Maintenance
You'll see gradual improvement over 1-2 weeks with take-home treatment. Your dentist will provide maintenance instructions.
Safety & Side Effects
Professional teeth whitening is very safe when performed by qualified dental professionals. Here's what to expect:
Common Side Effects
- • Temporary tooth sensitivity
- • Mild gum irritation
- • Slight discomfort during treatment
- • All effects are temporary
Safety Measures
- • Professional supervision
- • Regulated bleaching agents
- • Custom-fitted trays
- • Proper application techniques
Note: Professional whitening is much safer than over-the-counter products. Your dentist ensures proper application and monitors for any adverse reactions.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Teeth whitening costs vary depending on the type of treatment and your location. Here's a general guide to UK prices:
Take-Home Treatment
- • Custom trays + gel: £150-£500
- • Refill gel: £30-£280
- • Maintenance kit: £100-£400
- • Lasts 1-2 years
Note: Prices vary by location and practice. Many practices offer package deals for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do whitening results last?
Professional teeth whitening results typically last 6 months to 2 years depending on your lifestyle, diet, and oral hygiene habits. Regular maintenance treatments can extend these results.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, professional teeth whitening is very safe when performed by qualified dental professionals. It uses regulated bleaching agents that are designed to be gentle on your teeth and gums.
Will whitening damage my teeth?
No, professional whitening will not damage your teeth. The bleaching agents are designed to be safe and your dentist ensures proper application to protect your enamel.
How white will my teeth get?
Most patients see their teeth become 2-8 shades brighter. The final result depends on your natural tooth colour and the type of staining present.
Can I whiten crowns or fillings?
No, whitening only affects natural tooth enamel. Crowns, fillings, and veneers will not change colour. Your dentist can help match these restorations to your new tooth colour.
Find Teeth Whitening Near You
Browse cosmetic dentists offering whitening in the UK's largest cities:
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Find a dentistWritten by: Dr Tristan Tinn, Founder and Clinical Director of HelpDental
Last updated: September 25, 2025