A noticeably brighter smile
Professional teeth whitening with custom-made trays. Safe, effective, and supervised by our dental team for results that look natural and last.
About the treatment
What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening uses a clinically tested bleaching gel, applied in custom-made trays that fit closely against your teeth. The gel breaks down staining compounds within the enamel, gradually lifting the overall shade of your smile over a course of home treatments.
Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, professional whitening gel contains a higher concentration of active ingredient and is formulated to minimise sensitivity. The close fit of custom trays ensures the gel stays in contact with your teeth rather than leaking onto the gums.
At New Forest Family Dental, we assess your teeth and gums before recommending whitening to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you. We take a shade record at the start and again at the end so you can see the full extent of the improvement.
Why whiten professionally
Safe, effective, and tailored to you.
Noticeably brighter results
Professional whitening uses clinically proven bleaching agents that are significantly more effective than anything available over the counter, lifting stains and brightening your smile by several shades.
Safe and supervised
Whitening carried out under dental supervision protects your gums and tooth enamel throughout the process. We assess your suitability beforehand and monitor your progress at every stage.
Custom shade matching
We take a shade record at the start of treatment so you can see the difference clearly. You choose the level of whitening you want, and we guide you towards a result that looks natural for your complexion.
Whiten at your own pace
Home whitening with custom-made trays lets you work at a pace that suits you, in the comfort of your own home. Most patients achieve their target shade within two to three weeks.
Long-lasting results
With good oral hygiene and occasional top-up treatments, the results of professional whitening can last for several years. We supply extra whitening gel so you can easily maintain your shade.
Boosts confidence
A brighter smile is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve confidence. Patients consistently tell us that whitening has made a meaningful difference to how they feel about their appearance.
Treatment journey
From consultation to a brighter smile.
- 1
Consultation and assessment
We check that your teeth and gums are healthy and that whitening is suitable for you. We also take a shade record so you have a clear baseline to compare against.
- 2
Impressions for custom trays
Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory, which fabricates soft, close-fitting whitening trays unique to your mouth.
- 3
Trays and gel dispensed
Your custom trays are fitted at a brief appointment. We supply your whitening gel, show you exactly how to load the trays correctly, and explain how to use them at home.
- 4
Home whitening treatment
You wear the trays for the recommended time each day, typically one to two hours. Most patients reach their target shade within two to three weeks, depending on the degree of whitening desired.
- 5
Review appointment
We take a final shade record to compare the result against your starting point and make sure you are happy. We answer any questions and advise on maintaining your brighter smile.
Who is it for?
Could whitening be right for you?
Whitening is suitable for most healthy adults and is one of our most popular cosmetic treatments. Common reasons patients choose professional whitening:
- Staining from tea, coffee, red wine, or tobacco
- Teeth that have yellowed naturally over time
- Preparing for a special occasion
- Alongside other cosmetic treatment such as bonding or veneers
- Maintaining the shade after previous whitening
- Patients wanting a natural, gradual result
Take the first step
Book your whitening consultation
Come in for a relaxed, no-obligation consultation. We will assess your suitability, show you the shade guide, and explain what results are realistic for your teeth before you commit to anything.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions.
Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients experience mild, temporary sensitivity during whitening treatment. This usually settles within a day or two of finishing a session. We can recommend sensitivity toothpaste beforehand, and adjust the concentration of gel or frequency of use if needed to keep you comfortable.
How white will my teeth get?
Results vary from person to person depending on the natural shade of your teeth and the degree of staining present. We discuss realistic expectations during your consultation and take a shade record so you can see the improvement clearly. We aim for a result that looks natural and suits your complexion.
How long do the results last?
With periodic top-up whitening gels, good oral hygiene and a healthy diet, the results of professional whitening can last for several years. Habits such as drinking tea, coffee, and red wine, or smoking, will cause the teeth to re-stain more quickly. Occasional top-up treatments using your existing trays are an easy and affordable way to maintain your shade.
Does whitening work on crowns, veneers, or fillings?
Whitening gel only works on natural tooth enamel. It will not change the shade of existing crowns, veneers, or composite restorations. If you have visible restorations at the front of your mouth, we will discuss this with you during your consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Is professional whitening better than shop-bought kits?
Yes, significantly. Whitening products available without a prescription contain very low concentrations of bleaching agent and often come with ill-fitting trays, which can allow gel to leak onto the gums. Professional whitening uses clinically proven concentrations in trays that fit precisely, giving safer and far more effective results.
Am I suitable for teeth whitening?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are suitable for whitening. We do not recommend it for patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or for those under 18. If you have significant decay, gum disease, or heavily restored teeth, we will address those issues first.
Ready to meet your new dental team?
Same-day appointments available · Denplan members welcome