Short answerTeeth whitening performed under a dentist's supervision does not cause permanent damage to tooth enamel. The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity that goes away within a few days.
In-office and at-home whitening
In-office whitening takes about 1 hour and uses higher-concentration gels. With at-home whitening, custom-made trays are worn at set times over 1–2 weeks.
Will there be sensitivity?
Some people may experience sensitivity lasting 1–3 days after the procedure. Desensitizing toothpastes and adjusting the application time help reduce this.
Who should not have teeth whitening?
- People with untreated cavities or gum disease (these should be treated first)
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Individuals under 18 (without an assessment by a dentist)
Whitening results usually last 1–3 years, depending on habits such as diet and smoking.
This article is for general information only; please consult your dentist for diagnosis and treatment.