Professional Teeth Whitening

In-Office and Take-Home Whitening

• In-office whitening: a professional-strength gel is applied in our clinic, and your gums are protected during the treatment for fast results.
• Take-home whitening: custom-fitted trays and professional gel let you whiten at your own pace at home.
• Combination approach: some patients start in the clinic and maintain their shade with trays at home.

Custom trays are made to fit your teeth, which helps the gel stay where it belongs and reduces gum irritation compared with one-size-fits-all strips.

What Causes Tooth Stains?

• Coffee, tea, red wine and dark sauces.
• Tobacco use.
• Natural ageing, as enamel thins and the layer underneath shows through.
• Some medications and, in some cases, past trauma to a tooth.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Most adults with healthy teeth and gums can whiten. We examine your mouth first, because cavities, gum disease or worn enamel should be treated before whitening. Whitening only works on natural tooth surfaces, so fillings, crowns and veneers will not change colour. If you have those on your front teeth, we can talk about matching them with bonding, crowns or veneers.

Managing Sensitivity

Some patients notice temporary sensitivity during or after whitening. We can recommend desensitizing products, adjust how long you whiten and choose a gentler approach if needed. Tell us if your teeth are already sensitive.

Keeping Your Smile Bright

Brush twice daily, floss and keep up with regular cleanings to remove surface stains. Rinse after coffee or tea, and use your trays for occasional touch-ups. Results vary from person to person, so we will discuss realistic expectations at your visit.

Choosing Between In-Office and Take-Home Whitening

In-office whitening suits patients who want visible results quickly, for example before a special event. Take-home trays suit patients who prefer a gradual, flexible approach and want a tool they can reuse for touch-ups. Your dentist will recommend what fits your teeth, your schedule and your sensitivity level.

Why Professional Whitening Beats Store-Bought Kits

Over-the-counter strips and pens use weaker gels and cannot be fitted to your teeth, so coverage can be patchy and gums may be irritated. Professional whitening starts with an exam, uses custom trays or supervised treatment and lets us adjust the plan if you feel sensitivity. That guidance is what makes results more even and more comfortable.

Whitening for Special Occasions

If you are planning whitening before a wedding, graduation or photo session, let us know your date. We can suggest a timeline that leaves room for any needed cleaning, sensitivity management and touch-ups so your smile looks its best on the day.

Whitening is also a good first step before other cosmetic work, such as bonding, because the shade of your natural teeth is then settled before anything is matched to it.

Before Your Visit

• Book a checkup first if it has been a while, so we can treat any cavities or gum concerns.
• Let us know if your teeth are sensitive or if you have crowns, veneers or fillings on your front teeth.
• Have a cleaning beforehand so stains on the surface do not hold back results.
• Share your goals so we can recommend the right option.

After Your Treatment

• Avoid dark-coloured foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea and red wine, for the first day or two.
• Use a desensitizing toothpaste if your teeth feel sensitive.
• Do not smoke, as tobacco will quickly stain your teeth again.
• Use your take-home trays for touch-ups as directed.

Cost, Insurance and Offers

The cost depends on whether you choose in-office whitening, take-home trays or both. Whitening is a cosmetic treatment, so it is usually not covered by insurance. We will explain your options and fees before you start. See our patient information page for billing details.