Teeth Whitening
Also known as bleaching, professional whitening
The cheapest meaningful change to your face. Genuinely effective and low risk when done properly.
Custom trays from a dentist $300–600. In-office sessions $500–1,000. OTC strips $30–60 with weaker results.
How it works
Hydrogen or carbamide peroxide penetrates enamel and dentine, oxidising the chromogenic molecules that cause staining and breaking them into smaller, less pigmented compounds.
How it's used
Professionally made custom trays with 10–16% carbamide peroxide worn nightly for 2–3 weeks give the best results per dollar and cause less sensitivity than in-office high-concentration sessions. Whiten before any veneer or crown work — restorations do not change colour, so shade matching must come afterwards.
Trade-offs
In favour
- Very high impact for very low cost
- Non-destructive to tooth structure
- Fast — visible results in days
- Easy to maintain with occasional top-ups
Against
- Does not whiten crowns, veneers or fillings
- Results fade over 6–24 months
- Sensitivity is common during treatment
- Ineffective on tetracycline staining and some intrinsic discolouration
Risks and side effects
- Transient tooth sensitivity — very common, resolves after treatment
- Gum irritation from poorly fitting trays or overfilling
- Enamel damage from unregulated high-concentration or acidic products
- Uneven results with existing restorations
Recovery
None. Sensitivity during and shortly after treatment. Avoid staining foods for 48 hours after.
How good is the evidence?
Strong evidence for peroxide-based whitening efficacy and safety at supervised concentrations.
Sources
Sources point to guideline bodies and literature searches rather than single papers, so they stay accurate as the evidence moves.