Whitening lightens natural tooth structure. It does not change crowns, veneers, or fillings — which is why sequence matters if you have existing dental work at the front.
Crowns, veneers, and composite stay the shade they were made.
Works less predictably on some stains
Internal discolouration from trauma or medication responds differently.
A single dark tooth
Usually a different problem needing its own assessment.
Not permanent
Colour drifts back over time depending on diet and habits.
Sequence and sensitivity
If restorations are planned for front teeth, whitening usually comes first so the new work can be matched to the lighter shade. Doing it the other way round means restorations that no longer match.
Sensitivity during whitening is common and usually temporary. Spacing sessions, shorter wear times, and desensitising products help. Existing decay or exposed root surfaces should be treated before whitening, not during.
What we can explain here — and what needs an exam
A page can inform you. It cannot examine you.
We can explain online
What whitening acts on
Why restorations do not lighten
Why whitening precedes cosmetic work
Determined after an exam
Whether your discolouration will respond
Whether decay or recession needs treating first
What shade change is realistic for you
What to do next
A quick exam before whitening avoids the two common disappointments: unmatched restorations and unexpected sensitivity.