Get my teeth whitened
Teeth whitening uses peroxide to lighten natural tooth colour after a dental check identifies the type and cause of staining.
The short answer
To get your teeth whitened, have a dentist identify the staining and check your teeth and gums before choosing professional whitening or another treatment. Peroxide can lighten natural teeth, but it does not change the colour of most fillings, crowns, or veneers.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
External stains from drinks, tobacco, or plaque sit on the tooth surface, while intrinsic colour is within enamel or dentine and may respond differently. A dark tooth after trauma or treatment can need internal care rather than a general whitening session.
What can you do next?
Start with an examination and, when appropriate, a professional cleaning to remove deposits. Discuss in-office peroxide, dentist-prescribed trays, or alternatives such as replacing mismatched restorations, then use the supplied products exactly as directed.
When should you seek dental care?
Obtain dental advice before whitening if you have cavities, cracked teeth, bleeding gums, exposed roots, marked sensitivity, or restorations in the visible smile. Seek care for swelling or pain rather than trying to mask those symptoms with bleaching.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which stains can be lightened, what shade change is realistic for your teeth, how existing restorations will look, and how sensitivity will be managed. Ask whether a restorative or orthodontic issue should be treated first.
Frequently asked questions
Is cleaning the same as whitening?
No. Cleaning removes plaque and surface deposits, while whitening changes the colour of suitable natural tooth structure.
Can whitening fix one grey tooth?
A single grey tooth may have an internal cause and needs diagnosis before the appropriate whitening or restorative treatment is chosen.