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Teeth whitening
Treatment guide
Teeth whitening
What it is
Teeth whitening uses bleaching gel to lighten natural teeth. A dentist first checks your teeth and gums. You may use custom trays at home or have supervised treatment at the dental practice.
- Appointment
- Assessment often 20–40 minutes; in-chair whitening about 60–90 minutes
- Downtime
- Usually no work downtime; sensitivity possible
- Results
- Same day or over a home course
- Typical course
- Initial treatment/course; dentist-led top-ups
Assessment comes first. Ask about suitability and recovery, and give yourself time to consider the options before booking a procedure.
Available appointments
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What to expect
- A dentist checks for decay, gum problems and existing restorations.
- Depending on the plan, impressions or scans are taken for trays, or the gums are protected for supervised gel application.
How it feels
Trays or a mouth retractor can feel awkward. Temporary sensitivity or sharp twinges can occur during or after whitening.
Downtime
Usually no time off work is needed. Teeth may be sensitive and gums irritated for a short time. Stop and contact the dental team if symptoms are severe or persist.
Results
When you might see a change. In-chair changes may be visible the same day; home tray treatment usually takes a few weeks.
How long it might last. Whitening is temporary and can last from months to a few years, depending on staining and habits. It does not change the colour of crowns, veneers or fillings.
How often?
An initial treatment or home course is followed by reassessment. Top-ups depend on sensitivity and staining; do not repeatedly bleach without dental advice.
Before your appointment
- Book a dental assessment and mention sensitivity or pregnancy.
- Check whether trays, gel and review appointments are included in the price.
Aftercare
- Use gel only for the time and frequency prescribed.
- Follow advice on sensitivity and brushing; contact the dentist if discomfort persists.
Is it right for everyone?
Unhealthy teeth or gums need treatment first. Whitening is generally unsuitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and cosmetic whitening is restricted for under-18s.
Common reasons people book
- Lightening natural tooth colour
- Staining concerns
What your practitioner will confirm
In the UK this is dental treatment: assessment and prescription are by a registered dentist, with treatment by an appropriately registered dental professional.
Treatment details are a general guide. Your practitioner will confirm what is suitable for you, the exact treatment plan and aftercare.
Sources and review information
Source-checked 2026-09-22. Qualified clinical review is pending.