Tooth whitening is a well established procedure in cosmetic dentistry. The whitening process is effective on most discolored teeth. Darker stains, such as those caused by antibiotics may take longer to respond to treatment. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth, the number of applications or the duration of time that the system is used.

Tooth whitening can take place at night while you sleep. The whitening gel is place in a thin bleaching tray that fits over your teeth. As the active ingredient in the gel is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin and bleaches the colored substances. The structure of the tooth is not changed; only the tooth color is made lighter. Results are usually seen after the first night. Maximum results generally occur when the process is continued for 10 to 14 nights. The teeth will always be lighter than they were. However, some patients may need periodic re-whitening for one or two days every one to two years, especially if they continue to use staining substances like caffeine or tobacco products.