How whitening works
Whitening uses a peroxide gel that soaks into the enamel and breaks down the stains inside the tooth. It changes the colour of the tooth itself, not just the surface, and it does not wear the tooth away.
There are two main ways dentists whiten teeth:
- In the clinic. A stronger gel is applied while the gums are protected, usually in one visit of about an hour.
- At home with trays. Thin trays made from moulds of your teeth are worn with a milder gel for a set time each day, usually over one to two weeks.
Dr. Laura will explain which suits your teeth and your plans.
What whitening can and cannot change
Whitening only works on natural teeth. Crowns, veneers and tooth-coloured fillings keep the shade they were made in, so they can look darker next to newly whitened teeth.
Before
After
If you have crowns or fillings on your front teeth, it is usually best to whiten first and then replace them to match the new shade.
- Responds well: yellow staining from age, tea, coffee and tobacco.
- Responds less well: grey staining, some stains from medicines or from a tooth that has died, and white spots on the enamel.
Before whitening
Whitening is done on a healthy mouth. Dr. Laura first checks for decay, leaking fillings and gum problems, because the gel can make an untreated problem sore. A professional clean beforehand removes surface stains and tartar, so the gel can reach the tooth evenly.
Whitening is not usually done for children or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sensitivity
Teeth often feel sensitive to cold for a day or two after whitening. It passes on its own. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth helps, and Dr. Laura can adjust the plan if you are prone to sensitivity.
Making it last
- For the first day or two, avoid strongly coloured food and drink such as tea, coffee, red wine and curries with turmeric.
- Afterwards, rinse with water after tea or coffee, and do not smoke.
- Keep up regular cleaning. Most people find the result lasts many months, often a year or more, and a short touch-up brings it back.
Your dentist
Dr. Laura Albuquerque
Dr. Laura checks your teeth and gums before whitening, and plans around any crowns or fillings so your smile ends up an even shade. As a prosthodontist, she can also match or replace front crowns afterwards if needed.
Common questions
Does teeth whitening damage the enamel?
Not when it is done properly under a dentist’s care. The gel lightens the stain inside the tooth without wearing the enamel away. Products sold online with unknown strength, or scrubbing with abrasive powders, are a different matter.
How much does teeth whitening cost in Goa?
It depends on which method suits you and whether a clean or other treatment is needed first. Dr. Laura will tell you the cost before you start.
How white will my teeth get?
Everyone starts from a different shade and teeth respond differently, so there is no fixed result. Dr. Laura will record your starting shade and tell you what to expect.
Will whitening work on my crown?
No. Crowns, veneers and fillings do not change colour. If they are on your front teeth, they may need replacing after whitening to match.
Can I have my teeth whitened during a short visit to Goa?
Often, yes. Whitening in the clinic usually takes one visit, so it fits into a short stay; book a check-up and clean at the same time.
This page gives general information, not advice for your own teeth. Dr. Laura will explain what suits you, and what it will cost, after examining you.