The week before
Book a check-up if you have not had one recently. Your dentist needs to treat any decay or gum problems first.
A scale and polish a few days ahead gives the gel a clean surface.
Stop any home whitening kit you are using. Tell your dentist which product you tried.
At the clinic
- Shade check Your dentist records your starting shade against a guide.
- Protecting your gums Your dentist covers your gums and keeps your lips clear of the teeth.
- Applying the gel Your dentist puts the whitening gel on and times it.
- Final check You compare the new shade with the first one.
Ask how long to set aside when you book.
Right after
Your teeth can feel tender for a day or two. Lukewarm food and drink are easier at first.
Your teeth will look their brightest early on. The shade can settle a little over the following days.
Dentist or shop strips?
Shop strips use a lower strength and fit everyone the same way. Results can look patchy if your teeth overlap.
Your dentist can check first for problems strips would irritate. You also get a shade record to compare against.
Timing around big events
Allow two weeks before a wedding, an Eid gathering or a photo shoot. Then you have room for a second session if you want one.
Avoid a first-ever whitening the day before. You do not want sensitivity on the day.
Teeth that will not change
Crowns, veneers and fillings stay the same colour. Your dentist will warn you if a front filling may stand out.
Home trays
Some people whiten at home with trays made for their teeth. Your dentist takes a scan or impression, then gives you a gel to use for a set number of days.
Follow the times you are given. Leaving the gel in longer than advised can make sensitivity worse.
Food for the first two days
Pale foods are the safe choice while your teeth settle.
- Rice, chicken and fish
- Yoghurt, labneh and white cheese
- Bananas and peeled apples
- Water and milk
Skip karak, coffee, tea, cola, berries and anything in a red or yellow sauce.
Easing sensitivity
- Brush with a toothpaste for sensitive teeth for a week before and after
- Use lukewarm water when you brush
- Avoid ice and very cold drinks for a day or two
Tell your dentist if a twinge lasts longer than a few days.
Keeping it bright
Rinse with water after dark drinks and brush twice a day. Regular scale and polish visits remove new surface stains.
Questions to ask your dentist
- Which shade is realistic for my teeth?
- Will any fillings or crowns stand out?
- How long should I wait before a second session?