The Truth About Teeth Whitening
Everyone wants a brighter smile - and the whitening market knows it. Here is what a dentist actually tells patients before any whitening plan.
Why teeth darken
Coffee, tea, smoking, and simple ageing stain the outer enamel; some discolouration also comes from inside the tooth after injury or certain medications. The cause decides the treatment - which is why whitening starts with an examination, not a syringe of gel.
Your real options
- In-clinic laser whitening - the strongest and fastest result, done in a single supervised session with the gums protected.
- Dentist-made home trays - custom trays with professional gel, brightening gradually over two weeks.
- Whitening toothpastes and strips - modest results on surface stains only, and easy to overuse.
The sensitivity question
Temporary sensitivity is the most common side effect and normally settles within days. What you should never accept is whitening over untreated cavities or inflamed gums - reputable clinics screen for both first.
Whitening is not for everyone
Crowns, veneers, and fillings do not bleach, and results on internal discolouration are limited. A short consultation tells you honestly what shade change you can expect before you spend anything.
Book a dental consultation through MedFlo and ask about our whitening package - the exam is part of the deal.
Keeping the result
Whitening fades at the speed of your coffee habit. Rinsing after staining drinks, a straw for iced drinks, and a maintenance tray twice a month can stretch a result from months to years.
Whitening and gum health
Bleach on inflamed gums hurts and whitens unevenly. If your gums bleed when brushing, the cleaning and gum care come first - it is also why our whitening package always starts with an exam.
