A teeth whitening procedure or bleaching simply refers to any process that will make the teeth appear whiter. It is considered a non-invasive procedure that is designed to whiten and brighten teeth that are stained, discolored, darkened, or yellowed. First introduced to the public in the 1980’s, the popularity of teeth whitening products and procedures has soared. According to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, when respondents were asked, “What would you like to improve most about your smile?” The most common response was: whiter and brighter teeth.
How white a tooth appears depends upon how light is reflected and scattered off the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Teeth can look dark or discolored for a variety of reasons, with an imperfect appearance the result of outer surface stains or discoloration from within the tooth. While external tooth stains are typically due to certain foods and tobacco, internal tooth discoloration is mainly the result of hereditary factors, certain medications, tooth decay, restorations, or trauma. Additionally, the aging process can influence the color of a tooth. This is because over time the outer layer of enamel becomes thinner showing more yellowish tones from the underlying layer of dentin.
What are the advantages of a professional teeth whitening procedure performed by a dentist?
Although over the counter teeth whitening systems purchased in stores or online have become popular, there are health concerns and limitations with these products. If the manufacturers protocol is not correctly followed, certain products can damage the teeth and soft tissues in the mouth, and may not deliver the results as promised. Teeth whitening systems contain varying concentration of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which act as the bleaching agents. When sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or loose dental work are present, a teeth whitening procedure may be contraindicated. Also, since whitening systems do not have an effect on the color of dental fillings, crowns or bridges the presence of restorations is an important cosmetic consideration in treatment planning.
In general, individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best to teeth whitening procedures. Brown and grayish tinted teeth bleach respond less well and may require significantly longer dentist supervised tooth whitening regimens or alternative cosmetic treatments. Finally, teeth whitening may not be recommended in the presence of sensitive teeth, worn enamel and significant gum disease.
As a rule the healthiest and most effective methods of teeth whitening are the ones managed and supervised by the dentist. An in-office teeth whitening procedure as performed by the dentist is the most reliable and safest way to get the maximum results quickly. In as little as one hour a prescription-strength, in-office whitening procedure can dramatically whiten and brighten the natural teeth by several shades, while the surrounding tissues and any sensitive areas of the teeth are carefully isolated and protected from the bleaching agents.
A home whitening system from the dentist along with custom trays that have been fitted to the teeth is also an excellent option. Custom trays keep the bleaching agent in maximum contact with the teeth and away from the other areas of the mouth. With a take-home teeth whitening system, maximum results are less rapid than an in office procedure and are typically achieved over a longer period of time. A home whitening system can be used by itself or as recommended by the dentist as a follow up to an in office procedure in order to perfect or maintain the results.
Teeth darken for a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic reasons. Surface or extrinsic stains develop from frequent exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and certain deeply colored foods, and these stains collect on enamel over time. Poor oral hygiene that allows plaque and tartar to build up can also contribute to a dull or yellowed appearance.
Intrinsic discoloration begins inside the tooth and can result from medications taken during tooth development, dental trauma, large restorations or the natural thinning of enamel with age. As enamel becomes thinner, the darker dentin beneath becomes more visible and teeth may appear less bright even when healthy. Identifying the source of discoloration during an exam is the first step in selecting the most effective treatment.
Professional whitening uses peroxide-based agents that penetrate the enamel and break down stain molecules through an oxidation process. The active chemistry alters the shape and color of chromogens within the tooth, producing a visibly lighter shade without physically removing enamel. In a clinical setting the concentration, application time and protective measures are controlled to maximize results while reducing the risk of irritation.
Both in-office and dentist-dispensed take-home systems rely on the same basic chemistry, but differ in strength and delivery. Custom trays and clinical supervision improve contact between gel and tooth surfaces for more even whitening. A dental evaluation before treatment helps tailor the concentration and regimen to your sensitivity profile and oral health.
In-office whitening typically uses higher-concentration peroxide gels applied by the dental team and often produces several shades of improvement in a single visit. The procedure begins with a brief exam and cleaning, soft-tissue protection, and controlled application of the whitening gel; some offices use light adjuncts, although peroxide chemistry is the primary mechanism. This approach is appropriate when patients want faster, closely supervised results.
Take-home systems consist of custom-fitted trays and professionally formulated gel that patients apply at home over multiple days or weeks. This method offers a gentler, gradual change and allows patients to control the pace of whitening to reduce sensitivity. Both approaches are effective when used as directed, and your dentist will recommend the best option based on your goals and oral health.
Good candidates for whitening are adults with generally healthy teeth and gums whose discoloration is mainly limited to natural tooth structure. A dental exam confirms there is no untreated decay, active periodontal disease or exposed root surfaces that should be addressed before cosmetic treatment. Addressing these issues first ensures a safer, more predictable outcome.
Whitening is not appropriate for everyone; it will not change the color of crowns, veneers or composite fillings and may produce uneven results if restorations are present in highly visible areas. For patients with persistent intrinsic stains or extensive restorations, alternative cosmetic treatments such as bonding or veneers may provide a more uniform, long-lasting result. Your dentist will review options and create a plan that respects both your aesthetic goals and oral health.
When performed under professional supervision, whitening does not damage healthy enamel. Dentists screen for cavities, cracks and exposed dentin prior to treatment to prevent whitening agents from penetrating vulnerable areas and causing irritation. Protective measures such as gums barriers, precise application and controlled exposure times further reduce risks.
Dental restorations do not respond to bleaching agents and will not change color during whitening, which can lead to noticeable mismatches. If restorations are present in the smile zone, your dentist may recommend waiting to replace or adjust them after whitening so the final shade is harmonious. The goal is to achieve an even appearance while maintaining the integrity of existing restorations.
Longevity varies by individual and depends on diet, oral hygiene and lifestyle habits such as tobacco use. Many patients enjoy noticeably lighter teeth for months to years, but gradual re-staining is common, especially with frequent consumption of staining foods and beverages. The first 24 to 48 hours after whitening are a particularly sensitive window when enamel is more receptive to staining, so avoiding deeply colored items during that time helps preserve improvements.
Long-term maintenance includes regular brushing with a nonabrasive toothpaste, daily flossing and routine professional cleanings to remove new surface stains. For patients prone to discoloration, periodic touch-up treatments using custom trays and professional gel can restore brightness without repeating an in-office protocol. Small lifestyle adjustments like using a straw and rinsing after colored drinks also reduce the rate of re-staining.
A typical appointment begins with a focused exam and, if needed, a prophylaxis to remove surface plaque and tartar so the whitening agent can contact enamel evenly. Soft tissues are protected with barriers or retractors, and the whitening gel is applied precisely to the tooth surfaces; sessions are often under an hour and can produce several shades of improvement in one visit. Your provider will monitor comfort and adjust the protocol to limit sensitivity.
After treatment you will receive specific aftercare instructions that address sensitivity management and short-term diet recommendations to maximize results. The team will also discuss whether follow-up at-home applications or periodic touch-ups are appropriate to maintain your new shade. This personalized approach helps ensure the whitening plan fits your needs and oral health status.
Tooth sensitivity is a common, usually temporary side effect of bleaching and often peaks within 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Using a desensitizing toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride can reduce discomfort, and avoiding very hot or cold foods for a few days helps the nerves settle. If sensitivity occurs with take-home trays, shortening daily wear time or switching to a lower-concentration gel often provides relief.
If sensitivity is persistent or severe, contact your dental team so they can evaluate for underlying issues and recommend protective measures or alternative treatments. In some cases, a topical fluoride application or brief pause in treatment is sufficient to restore comfort. Ongoing communication with your dentist ensures whitening remains a safe and tolerable option.
Yes. Intrinsic stains caused by certain medications taken during tooth development, high levels of fluoride (fluorosis), or discoloration from trauma can be resistant to peroxide-based whitening. Large restorations and materials such as crowns, veneers or older composite fillings will not change color with bleaching and can limit the overall improvement achieved by whitening alone. In these situations, whitening may only partially improve appearance or may reveal shade differences between natural teeth and restorations.
When whitening alone is unlikely to provide the desired outcome, cosmetic alternatives such as porcelain veneers, bonding or replacement of restorations can create a more uniform and durable result. A comprehensive exam identifies the type of staining and guides the choice of the most predictable treatment. Your dentist will explain the advantages and limitations of each option so you can make an informed decision.
A consultation with a dentist is the best way to determine whether whitening will meet your goals; the visit includes an oral exam to check for decay, assess gum health and identify the type of staining present. During that appointment you can discuss the relative benefits of in-office versus take-home systems, review expectations for shade improvement and learn how restorations may affect the final result. This evaluation ensures the chosen approach is safe and suited to your dental history.
To schedule a consultation, call (718) 475-6831 and speak with the office team about available appointment times and any questions you may have. Bring a list of current medications and be prepared to discuss cosmetic goals and any previous dental work so the dentist can develop a personalized plan. Clear communication up front helps set realistic expectations and produces the most satisfying outcome.
