Dental whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that aims to lighten the color of the teeth and remove stains or superficial pigmentations caused by the consumption of foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine, tobacco, or simply the passage of time. It is a safe and effective procedure when performed under professional supervision.
There are different whitening techniques, the most common being in-office whitening—using high-concentration whitening gels activated with light—and outpatient treatment, which the patient performs at home with custom trays and a lower-concentration gel. In some cases, a combination of both is recommended to achieve better results.
Whitening does not damage enamel or weaken the teeth if applied correctly and in appropriate patients. It is important to conduct a prior evaluation to determine whether the patient is a candidate for the treatment, and to set realistic expectations based on the natural shade of their teeth.
Results may last several months or even years, depending on the patient’s oral hygiene and diet habits, so periodic maintenance sessions are recommended.