Teeth Whitening: What Works and What Doesn't

A bright white smile boosts confidence, and teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. However, with countless products available, it's hard to know what actually works. Let's separate fact from marketing hype.

Why Teeth Discolour

Teeth naturally yellow with age as the outer enamel thins, revealing the yellower dentine beneath. Lifestyle habits accelerate this: coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco stain teeth. Some medications and certain foods also cause discolouration. Understanding the cause helps determine the best treatment.

Professional Whitening

Professional treatments from your dentist are the most effective option. Your dentist uses stronger bleaching agents than over-the-counter products, delivering noticeably whiter teeth in one or two appointments. The results are dramatic and long-lasting, typically lasting six months to two years depending on your habits.

Professional treatments are also safer. Your dentist protects your gums and monitors the process, reducing sensitivity and ensuring even results. If you have existing dental work like crowns or fillings, your dentist can explain how whitening affects these.

At-Home Options

Custom trays provided by your dentist use professional-strength gel and deliver better results than shop-bought kits. You wear them nightly for one to two weeks. Results are slower than in-office treatment but still excellent and more affordable.

Shop-Bought Products

Whitening strips, pens, and pastes contain weaker bleaching agents and deliver modest results. Whitening toothpaste works through abrasion rather than bleaching and can damage enamel with aggressive brushing. These products might help maintain results from professional treatment but won't significantly whiten naturally dark teeth.

What Doesn't Work

Charcoal toothpaste is abrasive and can damage enamel. Oil pulling has no scientific evidence supporting whitening claims. Baking soda is too abrasive for regular use. Internet DIY methods using household products risk serious damage to your teeth and gums.

Important Considerations

Whitening only works on natural tooth structure. Crowns, veneers, and fillings don't whiten, so you might need replacement if they no longer match. Whitening won't work if discolouration is caused by medication or internal staining.

Some sensitivity after whitening is normal and temporary. If you have sensitive teeth, discuss this with your dentist before treatment. They can recommend sensitivity-reducing options.

For the best results, choose professional whitening. It's faster, safer, and more effective than alternatives, giving you the bright smile you want.