What You Should Know
- Tooth whitening is only effective on natural teeth — existing crowns, bonding, bridges, or fillings will not respond to whitening agents
- Whitening strips typically only cover the front teeth, not the entire arch
- Whitening may not be effective when teeth are seriously discoloured
- Whitening is a chemical procedure and may cause temporary sensitivity in the gums or teeth
Common Causes of Staining
- Age
- Tobacco smoking or chewing
- Coffee, tea, and red wine
- Certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline
- Dental fluorosis, from swallowing too much fluoride
Whitening Options
Whitening toothpastes remove only light surface stains, since the whitening agents are in contact with teeth for a short time. Home kits — strips, gels, and tray-based systems — can offer modest results but, if used improperly or too often, may irritate the gums or erode enamel. Professional whitening uses a stronger solution under the supervision of a dental professional, with a customized mouthguard to help protect the gums, and is generally considered the safest and most effective approach.
Whichever option you’re considering, a thorough examination and cleaning beforehand are recommended, and it’s worth talking to your dental team about which approach makes the most sense for your teeth.
