Professional Teeth Whitening: The Path to a Radiant Smile

Teeth discoloration can have many causes. Some are external (extrinsic), others internal (intrinsic). Understanding these causes helps us choose the most appropriate whitening method and also advises us on how to maintain a white smile for as long as possible.

• Food and drinks: Frequent consumption of coffee, tea (especially black), red wine, cola drinks, dark fruit juices (e.g. blueberry, currant) and some foods (curry, soy sauce, beetroot) can gradually lead to the deposition of pigments on the surface of tooth enamel.
• Smoking: Tobacco products contain tar and nicotine, which penetrate the microscopic pores of the enamel and cause yellow to brown discoloration of teeth.
• Aging: With age, tooth enamel naturally wears down and thins. This allows the dentin (teeth) underneath the enamel to shine through more.
• Poor oral hygiene: Irregular or improper brushing of teeth leads to the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar, which can cause not only gum inflammation, but also surface discoloration of the teeth.
• Tooth injuries: A blow or blow to the tooth can damage the dental pulp and cause internal bleeding, which will be manifested by darkening of the tooth from the inside.
• Medications: Some antibiotics (especially tetracyclines given in childhood during tooth development) can cause permanent grayish or brownish discoloration. Some high blood pressure medications, antihistamines, or mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine can also contribute to tooth discoloration.
• Genetics: The natural shade of teeth is determined to some extent by genetics. Some people have naturally lighter enamel, while others have darker enamel.
• Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride intake during tooth development can lead to the formation of white or brown spots on the enamel.

Before whitening, a thorough examination is always necessary at our Dobrý Dent office to identify the cause of the discoloration and choose the most effective procedure. Sometimes professional dental hygiene may be enough to remove surface pigmentation, while other times whitening is required.

At our clinic Dobrý Dent in Prague 5, we offer proven and safe teeth whitening methods that bring visible and long-lasting results. We always make sure that the process is as comfortable and gentle as possible for your teeth and gums.

Ordinary teeth whitening

Ordinary teeth whitening is the fastest and often most effective method to achieve significant teeth whitening during a single visit to our clinic. The entire process takes place under the direct supervision of a dentist or dental hygienist.

• Treatment process: First, we carefully cover your gums and soft tissues with a special protective barrier to prevent irritation. Then, we apply a highly concentrated whitening gel (usually based on hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to the surface of the teeth. The effect of the gel can be activated by a special lamp or laser, which speeds up and intensifies the process. The entire procedure usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
• Benefits: Immediately visible results, maximum safety thanks to professional application and gum protection, high efficiency even with more pronounced discoloration.
• Technology at Dobrý Dent: Before in-office whitening, we perform a thorough examination, often using our dental microscope, to make sure that the teeth are healthy and suitable for whitening. We use only certified and gentle whitening systems from renowned brands.

Home teeth whitening under the supervision of a doctor

Home whitening is a more gradual but still very effective whitening method that you can perform yourself in the comfort of your home, but always according to instructions and under the supervision of our team at Dobrý Dent.

• Treatment process: Based on impressions of your teeth, which we obtain either classically or using our modern 3D intraoral scanner for maximum accuracy, we will make individual trays (plastic molds exactly for your teeth) in our laboratory. Together with the trays, you will receive a special whitening gel with a lower concentration of the active ingredient than in-office whitening and detailed instructions. You then apply the gel yourself into the trays and wear them for a set period of time (usually several hours a day or overnight) for 1 to 2 weeks.
• Advantages: Convenience of home use, more gradual whitening (which some patients prefer), possibility of „re-whitening“ in the future, precise trays minimize contact of the gel with the gums, still professional and safe result under our supervision.
• Precision thanks to technology: The use of a 3D scanner at Dobrý Dent guarantees the production of perfectly fitting trays, which is key to the effectiveness and safety of home whitening.

Combined teeth whitening

To achieve maximum and most stable results, we often recommend a combination of both methods. We typically start with in-office whitening for a quick start and dramatic lightening, followed by at-home whitening to “fine-tune” the shade and stabilize it longer-term. This approach combines the benefits of both methods and is considered the gold standard in professional teeth whitening.

One of the most common questions patients have is the safety of teeth whitening. Professional whitening performed under the supervision of a dentist in a clinic like Dobrý Dent is considered a safe and proven cosmetic dental procedure. We use only certified materials and procedures that are gentle on tooth enamel and gums.

• Expert supervision: The key factor in safety is the supervision of a specialist. Before whitening, we always perform a thorough examination to rule out any contraindications (e.g. cavities, leaking fillings, gingivitis). These problems must be resolved before whitening itself.
• Soft tissue protection: During in-office whitening, we carefully protect the gums and lips. For home whitening, custom-made, precisely fitting trays provide protection.
• Concentration control: We use optimal concentrations of whitening agents that are effective but also minimize the risk of enamel damage or gum irritation.
• Teeth sensitivity: The most common side effect of whitening is temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold or hot stimuli. This sensitivity usually disappears on its own within a few days after the whitening is finished. At Dobrý Dent, we will advise you on how to minimize any sensitivity (e.g. by using special toothpastes). Our focus on patient comfort is also reflected in the use of technologies such as painless STA anesthesia in other procedures, which demonstrates our overall sensitive approach.
• Difference from over-the-counter products: Drugstore teeth whitening products (strips, gels, pastes) either have a very low concentration of active ingredient (and therefore little effect), or can be dangerous if used incorrectly (risk of enamel damage, gum corrosion). Professional whitening under the supervision of a doctor is significantly safer and more effective.

To be as satisfied with the whitening result as possible and to know what to expect, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the process and aftercare.

• Consultation and planning: The first step is always a consultation at Dobrý Dent. We will discuss your expectations, assess the condition of your teeth (possibly using X-ray or CBCT for detailed diagnosis of hidden problems), determine the cause of the discoloration and recommend the most suitable whitening method. We will explain the entire procedure, potential temporary side effects (sensitivity) and answer all your questions.
• Preparation: Before the whitening itself, it is ideal to undergo professional dental hygiene so that the surface of the teeth is perfectly clean, free of plaque and tartar. This will ensure an even effect of the whitening gel.
• Whitening itself: The course depends on the chosen method (in-office vs. at-home), as described above.
• Immediately after whitening: You may experience the aforementioned temporary tooth sensitivity. Avoid very cold or hot drinks and foods.
• „White diet“: During the whitening process (with the at-home method) and for at least 48 hours (ideally a week) after in-office whitening, it is important to follow the so-called „white diet“. After whitening, tooth enamel is temporarily more porous and more susceptible to re-staining. Therefore, avoid all foods and drinks that could stain your teeth (coffee, tea, red wine, cola, dark sauces, beetroot, curry, berries, etc.) and smoking. „white“ foods such as chicken, fish, rice, pasta, white yoghurt, cheese, milk, water are recommended.
• Maintaining the result: To maintain a radiant smile for as long as possible, consistent oral hygiene (brushing teeth twice a day, using interdental brushes and floss), regular visits to dental hygiene at Dobrý Dent (usually twice a year) and limiting the consumption of strongly staining foods and drinks, as well as smoking, are key. If necessary, it is possible to perform occasional „maintenance“ whitening (e.g. once a year for a few nights with home carriers).

Teeth whitening is a great option for most adult patients who desire a lighter shade of their teeth and have overall healthy teeth. Ideal candidates are people with yellowish or brownish discoloration of their teeth caused by aging, diet, or smoking.

However, there are situations where teeth whitening is not appropriate or should be postponed:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Although there is no direct evidence of harm, whitening is generally not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as a precautionary measure.
• Age under 18: The dental pulp and enamel of adolescents are not yet fully developed, so whitening is usually performed after they reach adulthood.
• Presence of cavities, leaking fillings, or cracks in the enamel: The whitening agent could penetrate the tooth and cause irritation or damage to the dental pulp. It is necessary to renovate the teeth first.
• Gingivitis or periodontitis: Active inflammation must be treated first. The whitening gel could irritate the inflamed gums.
• Very sensitive teeth: Patients with extremely sensitive teeth should proceed with caution and consider the suitability of whitening. Sometimes it is possible to reduce the sensitivity beforehand with special preparations.
• Allergy to peroxide: Although rare, an allergy to whitening agents is a contraindication.
• Extensive fillings, crowns or bridges in the front of the teeth: Whitening agents only affect natural tooth tissue. Fillings, crowns or bridges will not change their color when bleached. If you have prosthetic work in the front of your mouth and wish to whiten the surrounding teeth, you should take into account that after whitening, these works may need to be replaced to match the new shade of your teeth. We always consult about this thoroughly in advance.
• Unrealistic expectations: It is important to understand that whitening will lighten your natural shade of teeth, but will not make them unnaturally „Hollywood“ white. The resulting shade is individual.

At Dobrý Dent, we will always carefully assess your individual situation and honestly tell you whether whitening is a suitable option for you and what results you can expect.

Why choose our Dobrý Dent clinic for teeth whitening?

• Experience and expertise: Our doctors and hygienists have extensive experience with various teeth whitening methods and regularly train in the latest procedures. We have been operating in Prague 5 since 2010.
• Individual approach: Each patient is unique to us. We will create a whitening plan tailored to your needs, wishes and the condition of your teeth.
• Modern technology: We invest in cutting-edge equipment that increases the quality, accuracy and comfort of treatment. Our dental microscope enables detailed diagnostics, our 3D intraoral scanner ensures perfectly fitting trays for home whitening, and our CBCT (3D X-ray) provides a comprehensive view of the condition of the teeth and jaws, if needed for treatment planning. Although CBCT is not directly necessary for whitening itself, its presence at the clinic testifies to our comprehensive diagnostic background.
• Safety first: We use only proven, certified and gentle whitening materials. We strictly follow all procedures to protect your teeth and gums.
• Comfort and care: We strive to make your visit with us as pleasant as possible. The modern and calming environment of our clinic in Anděl, the empathetic staff and the emphasis on painlessness (e.g. the possibility of using painless STA anesthesia for other procedures) contribute to your well-being.
• Comprehensive care: We offer a wide range of dental services from preventive care and dental hygiene, through conservative dentistry, endodontics (root canal treatment under a microscope), prosthetics to implantology and dental surgery. All under one roof.
• Transparency: We will discuss the entire procedure, expected results and the cost of the treatment with you in advance.

How long do teeth whitening results last?

The durability of the results is individual and depends on your eating habits, oral hygiene and lifestyle (smoking). With proper care, the results can last from one to three years, sometimes longer. The results can be easily maintained or restored with short-term „re-whitening“ using home trays.

Is teeth whitening painful?

Most patients do not feel pain during the whitening process. The most common side effect is temporary increased tooth sensitivity, which usually subsides quickly. At Dobrý Dent, we will advise you on how to minimize any sensitivity.

How many shades will my teeth be whiter?

The final degree of lightening is individual and depends on the original shade of the teeth, the cause of the discoloration, and the chosen whitening method. Usually, the whitening is done by several shades on a standardized color scale. Our goal is to achieve a natural-looking, radiant smile, not an unnatural „icy“ whiteness.

Can crowns, bridges, or fillings be whitened?

No, whitening agents only affect natural tooth tissue. Artificial materials such as ceramics, resins, or metal alloys do not change their color when bleached. If you have these restorations in the front of your mouth, you should consider the possible need to replace them after whitening to achieve color harmony.

What is the price of professional teeth whitening at Dobrý Dent?

The price depends on the chosen method (office, home, combined) and the individual needs of the patient. We will inform you of the exact price based on the initial consultation and examination. Investing in professional whitening is an investment in your self-confidence and a beautiful smile.

Professional teeth whitening is an effective and safe way to achieve a brighter and more attractive smile. At the Dobrý Dent dental clinic in Prague 5 (Anděl), we offer you not only cutting-edge whitening methods, but also comprehensive care based on experience, modern technologies and an individual approach. Our team is ready to help you achieve the smile you desire and thus increase your self-confidence and quality of life.

Don’t put off your dream of a radiant smile. Take the first step today.