In-Office Teeth Whitening

Professional in-office whitening lightens the natural shade of the teeth using a higher-strength gel applied by the dental team, with the gums protected throughout. At EM Dent it is carried out in the surgery for a noticeable result in a single appointment. A hygiene visit beforehand is recommended so the gel works evenly, and the dentist checks that teeth and gums are healthy before treatment.

In-office tooth whitening uses a professional-strength peroxide gel, applied directly to the teeth by the dental team, to break down stains and lighten the underlying tooth shade. Because it is performed in the surgery with the gums and soft tissues carefully isolated, it can achieve a clearer result in one visit than over-the-counter products, under the supervision of a dentist. At EM Dent the process starts with a check that your teeth and gums are healthy and a note of your starting shade; whitening is most effective and even when the teeth have recently been cleaned, so a scaling and air-polishing appointment beforehand is usually advised. During treatment the gums are protected, the gel is applied for set periods and the shade is reviewed as it lightens. Some people notice short-lived tooth sensitivity afterwards, which typically settles within a day or two; the dentist will give advice on managing it and on avoiding strongly coloured food and drink while the teeth settle. Whitening lightens natural tooth enamel only — it does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers, so if you have visible restorations the dentist will discuss how the result will look and whether any restorations might later be matched to the new shade. Results vary between individuals and gradually fade over time, so occasional top-ups help maintain the effect.