Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening lightens discolouration in the enamel and dentine using professional gels applied under dental supervision. Learn about in-office and at-home methods, the treatment stages and aftercare.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening, also known as bleaching, is a dental procedure that lightens discolouration in the enamel and the underlying dentine using professional-grade gels. These gels typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break down pigment molecules inside the tooth so that it appears lighter in shade.
Whitening does not grind away or remove tooth structure. When performed under the supervision of a dentist and with the correct indications, it is considered a tissue-friendly procedure in modern dental practice.
It is regarded as one of the most conservative options in aesthetic dentistry, since it aims to lighten the existing tooth structure without drilling, veneers or other restorations. The shade that can be achieved varies with the cause of the discolouration and the individual structure of the teeth.
Why Do Teeth Change Colour?
Discolouration is generally classified as either extrinsic (on the surface) or intrinsic (within the tooth tissue). Identifying the source correctly is essential for choosing the right whitening method.
- Staining drinks such as tea, coffee and red wine, as well as smoking
- Age-related thinning of the enamel, which makes the yellower dentine underneath more visible
- Internal discolouration in teeth that have had root canal treatment
- Certain antibiotics taken during tooth development (for example tetracycline) or excessive fluoride intake
- Superficial staining linked to plaque and tartar build-up
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Whitening?
Whitening is an option for adults with healthy teeth and gums who are unhappy with the shade of their teeth. Any decay, leaking fillings or gum inflammation must be treated before whitening can begin.
The procedure is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for patients under 18, or where advanced enamel defects are present. In patients with large fillings or crowns in the smile zone, expectations should be discussed carefully, as restorations are not affected by the whitening gel.
Whether whitening is appropriate for you, and which method suits you best, differs from person to person; the treatment plan is determined through a clinical examination by the dentist.
In-Office or At-Home Whitening: What Is the Difference?
In-office whitening is carried out at the clinic by the dentist. After the gums are isolated with a protective barrier, a higher-concentration whitening gel is applied to the teeth and may be supported with a light source. A visible change in shade is usually observed within a single session.
At-home whitening uses custom-made clear trays together with a lower-concentration gel. The trays are worn for the period recommended by the dentist, usually over one to three weeks. Depending on your needs, the two methods can be planned on their own or combined.
How Does the Process Work at ADEN Dental?
At our clinic in Çukurambar, Ankara, teeth whitening follows four clearly defined stages:
- Examination: teeth and gums are assessed, the cause of the discolouration is identified, and existing fillings or crowns are reviewed.
- Planning: the current shade is recorded and the most suitable method — in-office, at-home or combined — is agreed together with you.
- Application: professional cleaning is performed first if needed, followed by the whitening procedure using the chosen method.
- Follow-up: the final shade is evaluated, any sensitivity is managed, and advice is given on maintaining the result.
How Should You Care for Your Teeth Afterwards?
For the first 48 hours after treatment, the enamel is more receptive to staining agents. Tea, coffee, red wine, acidic drinks and strongly coloured foods should be avoided during this period, and smoking is not recommended.
Temporary sensitivity to hot and cold may occur and usually settles within a few days. Fluoride or desensitising toothpastes recommended by your dentist can make this period more comfortable.
How well the new shade holds also depends on daily habits: rinsing the mouth with water after staining foods or drinks is a simple but effective precaution. Regular brushing, flossing and routine check-ups all help to preserve the result for longer.
Pain is not expected during the procedure. Some patients notice temporary sensitivity to hot and cold during or after treatment; this usually resolves within a few days and can be eased with products recommended by your dentist.
In-office whitening is usually completed in a single session of around 45 to 60 minutes, with an additional session planned if needed. At-home whitening generally takes one to three weeks, depending on the gel concentration and the schedule set by the dentist.
The result is not permanent. Depending on diet, smoking and oral hygiene, the achieved shade is typically maintained for one to three years and can be refreshed with short top-up treatments under dental supervision.
Whitening is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients under 18, people with untreated decay or gum disease, and anyone with an allergy to peroxide compounds. Suitability is always assessed by the dentist during an examination.
When applied under professional supervision at the correct concentration and duration, there is no scientific evidence that whitening causes lasting damage to enamel. Uncontrolled, overly frequent use or non-standard products, however, can increase the risk of sensitivity and enamel harm.
No. Whitening gels act only on natural tooth tissue; composite fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour. Restorations in the visible area may therefore need to be replaced after whitening to match the new shade.