Patient discussing teeth whitening at Triangle Dental in Reading

Teeth whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a simple way to brighten your smile while keeping the result natural. With custom-made whitening trays and treatment supervised by your dentist, we can help lift staining and gradually lighten the natural colour of your teeth.

A simple way to brighten your smile

Teeth naturally become darker over time. Tea, coffee, red wine, smoking and everyday foods can also contribute to staining and discolouration.

Professional whitening works by gently lightening the natural colour of your teeth. Because treatment takes place gradually, you remain in control of how bright you would like your smile to become.

Before whitening, we will examine your teeth and gums to make sure treatment is suitable and discuss the kind of result you would like to achieve.

Why choose professional whitening?

  • A simple and cost-effective way to make a noticeable difference to your smile
  • Treatment planned and supervised by your dentist
  • Custom-made trays designed specifically for your teeth
  • Gradual whitening so you can control the final shade
  • A conservative treatment that does not alter the shape of your teeth
  • Advice on sensitivity and maintaining your result

How teeth whitening works

We keep the process straightforward and tailor your treatment to your teeth, your starting shade and the result you are hoping for.

1

Consultation

We examine your teeth and gums, discuss what you would like to change and make sure whitening is appropriate for you.

2

Digital scan

A digital scan of your teeth is used to create custom-made whitening trays that fit closely around your teeth and hold the whitening gel in the correct position. This accurate fit also helps reduce contact with saliva, which can dilute or neutralise the whitening gel.

3

Whiten at home

We show you how to use your trays and whitening gel safely at home, following the instructions given by your dentist.

4

Reach your shade

Whitening happens gradually, allowing you to continue until you are happy with the brightness of your smile.

Everything you need to know about teeth whitening

Hear directly from our dentists about how professional whitening works, what to expect and what to consider before starting treatment.

Professional whitening explained

Our dentists explain how treatment works, who it may be suitable for and how we help patients achieve a brighter smile while keeping the result looking natural.

Real teeth whitening results

Every smile starts from a different point and responds differently to whitening. These are real examples of patients treated at Triangle Dental.

Teeth before professional whitening treatment at Triangle Dental Before
Teeth after professional whitening treatment at Triangle Dental After

A naturally brighter smile

Professional whitening can lift everyday staining and brighten the natural colour of the teeth, creating a fresher smile without changing their shape.

Teeth before professional whitening treatment at Triangle Dental Before
Teeth after professional whitening treatment at Triangle Dental After

A noticeably brighter smile

Professional whitening can significantly brighten the natural colour of the teeth while keeping the result looking natural.

Things to know before whitening

Whitening is straightforward for many patients, but there are a few important things we will consider when planning your treatment.

Existing fillings, crowns or veneers

Whitening lightens natural tooth structure, but existing crowns, veneers, fillings and composite bonding will not whiten in the same way. We will take this into account when planning your treatment.

Sensitive teeth

Some people experience temporary sensitivity while whitening. If you already have sensitive teeth, tell us before treatment so we can advise on the most appropriate way to proceed.

Keeping your smile brighter

Your teeth will slowly pick up some colour again over time. Maintaining good oral hygiene and using occasional whitening top-ups as advised by your dentist can help maintain your result for many years.

Teeth whitening myths, busted

There is a lot of conflicting information online about teeth whitening — from whether it damages enamel to whether shop-bought products work in the same way as professional treatment.

In this short video, our dentists discuss some of the most common whitening myths and explain what patients really need to know.

Teeth whitening FAQs

Some of the questions we are most often asked about professional teeth whitening.

Is the whitening consultation free?

Yes. Your teeth whitening consultation is free. We take a £30 refundable booking deposit when the appointment is reserved.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Dentist-supervised whitening uses regulated whitening products after your mouth has been assessed to make sure treatment is appropriate. We will also explain exactly how to use your trays and whitening gel.

How long does teeth whitening take?

Most whitening treatment takes around 4–8 weeks. The exact length of time varies depending on your starting shade, the type of staining or discolouration, how consistently you use your whitening trays and the result you would like to achieve.

How white will my teeth become?

Everyone responds differently to whitening. We can discuss the likely result at your consultation, but the aim is usually to create a noticeably brighter smile that still looks natural.

Can whitening help a discoloured tooth?

Whitening can sometimes improve the appearance of a discoloured tooth, although the result depends on the cause of the discolouration. Some teeth may need additional treatment to achieve the best result, so we will assess the tooth first and discuss the most appropriate options with you.

Will whitening work on crowns, veneers or fillings?

Whitening gel works on natural tooth structure. Existing crowns, veneers, fillings and composite bonding do not change colour in the same way, so we will consider these carefully when planning treatment.

Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Temporary sensitivity can occur during whitening. It is usually short-lived, and we can advise you on ways to manage it or adjust your whitening routine if necessary.

How long do the results last?

Whitening treatment can last for many years. Your teeth will slowly pick up some discolouration again over time, depending on factors such as your diet, smoking and how well you clean your teeth. Occasional whitening top-ups, perhaps every one or two years, can help maintain your teeth at their whitest.

Can I whiten my teeth before composite bonding or veneers?

Yes. If you are considering composite bonding or veneers, we will usually complete whitening first. This allows your dentist to match the shade of the composite or porcelain to your newly whitened teeth. We will plan the sequence of treatment with you.

Ready for a brighter smile?

Book a free teeth whitening consultation and we can assess your teeth, talk about the result you would like to achieve and explain the most appropriate whitening treatment for you.

Whitening consultations are free. A £30 refundable booking deposit is required to reserve your appointment.