What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening uses a bleaching gel to lighten the natural colour of your teeth. It can reduce staining from tea, coffee, smoking and ageing.
Whitening should only be carried out after a dental check-up. Existing fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour, and some types of discolouration respond better than others.
Why You May Need It
- Yellowing or dullness from tea, coffee or smoking
- Gradual darkening of teeth with age
- Wanting a brighter smile for a special occasion
Common Symptoms
- Teeth that look yellow or dull
- Uneven colour between teeth
- Surface stains that cleaning alone does not remove
When You Should See a Dentist
- Before starting any whitening — to check for decay, gum problems or sensitivity that should be treated first.
- If a single tooth has darkened — this can indicate a problem inside the tooth and needs examination.
How Teeth Whitening Works
- Step 1
Check-up & shade record
We check your teeth and gums and record your starting shade.
- Step 2
Cleaning
Professional cleaning may be recommended first to remove surface stains.
- Step 3
Protecting the gums
Gums are protected before the whitening gel is applied (for in-clinic whitening).
- Step 4
Whitening
The gel is applied in clinic, or custom trays are made for supervised home whitening.
- Step 5
Review
We compare the new shade and advise on keeping your results.
What Does It Feel Like?
Whitening is not painful, but temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation is common during and shortly after treatment. It usually settles within a few days. Tell your dentist if you already have sensitive teeth.
How Long Does It Take?
In-clinic whitening usually takes one appointment of about 60–90 minutes. Home whitening with custom trays typically runs over a few weeks.
Aftercare
- Avoid strongly coloured foods and drinks (tea, coffee, cola) for 48 hours.
- Use a sensitivity toothpaste if advised.
- Results fade gradually; top-ups may be suggested.
Benefits
- A brighter, fresher-looking smile
- Supervised for safety
- Non-invasive — no drilling
Who May Need It?
- Adults with healthy teeth and gums
- People with natural staining (not suitable during pregnancy or for young children)
Treatment options and outcomes vary. Your dentist will assess your condition and explain whether this treatment is suitable for you. We never guarantee results.
Frequently Asked Questions
When supervised by a dentist and used correctly, whitening is considered safe for most adults. Temporary sensitivity is common. Your dentist will check suitability first.
This varies with diet and habits. Many people see results for months to a few years, with occasional top-ups.
No. Existing restorations do not change colour, which may need to be considered in your plan.
Treatment cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan your dentist recommends. After an assessment, we explain your options and their costs clearly before anything begins — contact the clinic to arrange an assessment.
Treatment Cost & Consultation
Treatment cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan your dentist recommends. After an assessment, we explain your options and their costs clearly before anything begins — contact the clinic to arrange an assessment.
We don’t publish fixed prices online because the right plan depends on your examination.
Why Choose Ali Dental Clinic?
- Before your appointmentWhat to expect
- During consultationWe’ll listen first
- Before treatmentWe’ll explain your options
- After treatmentWe’ll guide your aftercare