How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to lighten the colour of teeth and remove stains or discolouration, improving their overall appearance.
Whitening works by using bleaching agents, typically containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the enamel of the teeth and target stains both on the surface (extrinsic) and within the tooth (intrinsic). This breaks stains down into smaller particles, making the teeth appear brighter.
There are two main types of teeth whitening treatment: in-chair professional treatments performed by a dentist and at-home whitening kits you perform yourself.
In-chair professional whitening is performed by a dentist in the clinic. This method uses a higher concentration of bleaching agents for faster and more dramatic results.
A protective barrier is placed over the gums, and the whitening gel is applied to the teeth. In many cases, a special light or laser is used to activate and accelerate the whitening process.
Results are often noticeable after a single 60 to 90-minute session, though multiple sessions may be recommended for the best results.
In-chair whitening can achieve immediate results, is applied by an experienced professional, and is typically more powerful than home kits.
Professional at-home whitening kits are provided by a dentist to do at home. They contain a lower concentration of bleaching agents compared to in-chair treatments, so the whitening effect may be slower. The patient applies whitening gel to custom-made or standard whitening trays that fit over the teeth. The trays are worn for a specific duration each day, usually a few hours or overnight, for several weeks.
Full results are typically achieved after 1 to 2 weeks of daily use. At-home treatments are often more affordable, can be done at home when it’s convenient, and the process is more gradual.
Both methods are safe and effective when done properly, but consulting a dentist before starting any whitening treatment is recommended to ensure it’s suitable for your teeth and gums.
How to achieve a brighter, whiter smile with teeth whitening
Whether you choose in-chair or at-home whitening, it all starts with a consultation with a dentist.
Initial consultation
During this visit, the dentist will assess your oral health to determine if you're a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. Conditions like cavities, gum disease, or severe enamel erosion must be treated before whitening.
The dentist may also evaluate your current tooth shade and discuss your desired level of whiteness.
You'll discuss what kind of results you want and the differences between in-chair and at-home treatments. The dentist will recommend the best method for your needs.
Preparation
Whichever method of whitening you choose, your dentist will complete a professional cleaning first to remove surface stains, plaque, and tartar, ensuring the whitening treatment works more effectively. They might also take pictures or use a shade guide to document the starting colour of your teeth so that results can be measured.
In-chair whitening - 60-90 minutes per visit
The dentist applies a protective barrier or gel to the gums to prevent irritation from the whitening agent. Then, a high-concentration bleaching gel containing either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is applied directly to the teeth.
A special LED light or laser may be used to activate the whitening gel and accelerate the process. The gel is left on the teeth for 15-30 minutes, then rinsed off, and the process may be repeated 2-3 times during the session depending on desired results.
After the treatment, the gel is removed, and the mouth is rinsed. Fluoride or desensitising treatments may be applied to reduce sensitivity.
At-home whitening - 1-2 weeks of daily use
The dentist takes impressions of your teeth to create custom whitening trays that fit your teeth perfectly. These trays ensure the whitening gel is evenly applied. You'll be given a whitening gel, usually containing carbamide peroxide, with instructions on how much to apply in the trays.
You wear the trays with the gel for the recommended amount of time each day, typically for 1-2 hours or overnight for lower concentrations. After each use, rinse the trays and your mouth thoroughly. This process is repeated daily for 10-14 days or as instructed by your dentist.
Post-treatment care
Avoid staining foods and drinks for at least 24-48 hours after whitening, including coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato-based sauces.
Continue regular brushing and flossing to maintain your results. Some patients experience tooth sensitivity after whitening, which usually subsides within a few days. Your dentist may provide desensitising toothpaste or treatments to help with this.
Follow-up appointments
A follow-up appointment may be needed to check the results and ensure there are no issues like increased sensitivity or uneven whitening.
Depending on your lifestyle and habits, you may need touch-up treatments every 6 months to 2 years to maintain your newly whitened smile.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
In-chair teeth whitening performed by a dentist typically ranges from £300 to £800 per session. Dentist-provided at-home whitening kits typically cost £200 to £400 per kit.
In-chair whitening treatments are more expensive because they use stronger bleaching agents and often involve specialist equipment like LED lights or lasers to accelerate the whitening process. Because it’s performed by a dentist, you're also paying for professional expertise and immediate results.
In-chair whitening costs more due to the strength of the treatment and the immediate, dramatic results, while at-home kits are more affordable but require consistent application over time.
Many dentists offer monthly payments with no or low interest rates, giving patients the ability to spread the cost of teeth whitening over time for greater affordability.
CompareDent searches for the most affordable teeth whitening treatments from dentists near you. Choose from highly rated, professional dentists and organise a quick and easy consultation today.
The benefits of teeth whitening
Teeth whitening offers both cosmetic and psychological benefits. It’s one of the most popular and non-invasive cosmetic dental treatments available.
A brighter, whiter smile
Teeth whitening can remove stains and discolouration caused by food, drink, tobacco, and ageing, giving you a brighter and more attractive smile. Whitening enhances the overall appearance of your teeth, making them look cleaner and healthier, and even turning back the clock.
Boosted confidence and self-esteem
A whiter smile can dramatically boost a patient’s confidence. Many people feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and socialising after whitening their teeth. Whitening can help you feel more youthful and attractive.
Non-invasive treatment
Teeth whitening doesn’t require surgery, tooth reshaping, or other invasive procedures, making it a simple way to enhance your smile.
Quick results
In-chair whitening can produce dramatic results in just one visit, typically within an hour. At-home kits can show noticeable improvements in 1-2 weeks. Patients don’t need to wait long to see great results, which is why teeth whitening is a popular choice before weddings, parties, or photoshoots.
Flexible treatment
Whether you choose an in-chair treatment or at-home whitening kits, the level of whitening you receive can be customised to meet your needs. Your dentist can tailor the treatment to achieve the desired shade, ensuring the results look natural.
Affordable prices
Compared to other cosmetic dental treatments like veneers or crowns, teeth whitening is relatively affordable. It provides a noticeable improvement in appearance without breaking the bank.
Safe and effective
When done under a dentist’s supervision, teeth whitening is a safe and effective procedure. Professional treatments are designed to minimise side effects like tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
Teeth whitening is a fast, safe, and effective way to enhance your smile, boost confidence, and improve your appearance without invasive treatments.
How to find the right teeth whitening treatment for you
CompareDent offers comprehensive information and price comparisons for teeth whitening treatments, helping users make informed decisions about their dental care. Find the best-rated dentists near you offering in-chair and at-home teeth whitening.
