The whitening market is flooded with strips, trays, pens, and toothpastes all promising a brighter smile. But not all whitening is created equal — and choosing the wrong method can damage your enamel or simply waste your money.
What over-the-counter products actually do
Over-the-counter whitening products typically contain low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide — the active bleaching agents. While they can lighten teeth by a shade or two, results are modest and slow, often taking several weeks of consistent use.
The fit problem
For many people, the biggest issue isn't effectiveness but fit. Generic trays don't seal properly, causing the gel to leak onto gums and cause irritation — an easily avoidable problem with a custom-made tray.
How professional whitening works differently
In-chair whitening at DentArt uses a higher-concentration gel activated by a specialised light, delivering results of up to eight shades lighter in a single session. The treatment is carefully monitored throughout to protect your gums and enamel.
Our take-home kits use custom-fitted trays made from impressions of your teeth — better, more even results than any over-the-counter product, with no gum irritation.
One thing whitening can't do
Whitening works only on natural tooth enamel — it won't change the colour of crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have restorations in visible areas, we'll factor this into your treatment plan so the final result looks seamless.
Managing sensitivity
Sensitivity is the most common side effect of whitening. We recommend using a sensitivity toothpaste in the weeks leading up to treatment and provide guidance on managing any temporary sensitivity afterward. For most patients, the results are well worth it.
