Dr. James Goolnik

The only difference in the hundreds of dentist-prescribed whitening systems out there is the concentration of the gel (oxygenating agent) and the way it is applied to your teeth.

There are two main ways of carrying out tooth whitening:

1. Tray based whitening. The gel is placed in a custom made night-guard which is worn for a set period for 10-14 days. The period you wear the trays depends on the type and concentration of peroxide gel.
2. In-surgery whitening, also known as laser or power bleaching. Here, more concentrated gels are applied directly to the teeth and accelerated with heat or light (laser/power). We still make custom-made trays for the patient to use afterwards to maximise the whitening and for maintenance.

Sensitivity to laser/power bleaching is usually only for the rest of that day. We suggest avoiding very hot or cold foods. Take whatever medication you would take for a headache and if you have custom-made trays place some sensitive toothpaste in the trays and wear for 10 minutes.