Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a proven method to make your teeth appear brighter. Discover the benefits and different bleaching techniques at our Dental Clinic Vienna Döbling.
Your Teeth, Your Smile: Everything About Professional Teeth Whitening
A bright smile with white teeth is considered attractive and boosts self-confidence. Teeth whitening is the fastest way to visibly lighten your teeth. Professional whitening can effectively remove discoloration caused by diet, aging, or genetic factors.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a procedure that lightens teeth by applying a special bleaching gel. The gel releases oxygen radicals, which break down the pigments in the teeth, making them appear brighter. This procedure should always be performed by a dentist, as only a dentist can identify and treat leaky fillings before whitening is carried out.
Why Are My Teeth Darker?
Tooth discoloration can be genetic, similar to eye color or skin tone. Over time, pigments from food and beverages can accumulate in the tooth structure, making teeth appear darker. Additionally, enamel naturally wears down with age, exposing the darker dentin underneath.
Professional Teeth Whitening at the Dental Clinic
Professional whitening at the dental clinic offers numerous benefits. One of the biggest advantages is that visible results can often be achieved in just one session. Within approximately 90 to 120 minutes, teeth are effectively lightened. The whitening effect can last up to two years, depending on oral hygiene and consumption habits. Another benefit is the ability to customize the results. The intensity of whitening can be precisely adjusted based on the condition of the teeth and individual preferences. Importantly, professional teeth whitening does not cause long-term damage as long as teeth are treated with fluoride and calcium afterward to strengthen enamel and prevent sensitivity.
Types of Teeth Whitening Procedures
Our dental clinic offers a variety of teeth whitening methods that are safe and effective. These include In-Office Bleaching, performed by our dental assistants with specialized training in prophylaxis and bleaching. In addition to In-Office Bleaching, other whitening procedures can be used depending on individual needs and conditions. Below are the most common teeth whitening methods offered at the Vienna Döbling Dental Clinic:
In-Office Bleaching
In-Office Bleaching is the most effective method for teeth whitening, as it is performed under the supervision of a dentist. A highly concentrated bleaching gel is applied directly to the teeth and activated with a special light or laser to break down stains within the tooth. The procedure takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and provides immediate visible results. Due to the strength of the materials used, these bleaching gels may only be handled by trained professionals. In our clinic, In-Office Bleaching offers fast results in a single session.
Home Bleaching
With Home Bleaching, patients receive custom-made trays filled with a bleaching gel, which are worn for several hours each day. Although this method can be conveniently done at home, we advise against it at the Vienna Döbling Dental Clinic. The results are often less precise, and there is an increased risk of gum irritation or uneven whitening. For optimal results and maximum safety, professional bleaching in our clinic under expert supervision is always recommended.
Internal Bleaching (for root canal-treated teeth)
Internal Bleaching is used specifically for teeth that have darkened due to a root canal treatment. The bleaching agent is placed directly inside the tooth and left there for several days until the desired shade is achieved. Afterwards, the tooth is sealed with a filling.
Safe dental bleaching under professional supervision
Professionally performed dental bleaching in a clinic is safe and effective, but certain aspects should be considered before treatment. Below, you will learn about potential risks, side effects, and how they can be minimized to achieve the best results.
01.
Thorough Examination
Bleaching is safe when performed correctly under the supervision of a dentist. In our clinic, we use only tested and approved bleaching agents that are gentle yet effective. A thorough examination of your teeth beforehand ensures that bleaching is suitable for you and that no hidden issues, such as faulty fillings, are present.
02.
The first 48 hours after bleaching
The most common side effects include temporary tooth sensitivity and mild gum irritation. During the first 48 hours after bleaching, teeth may be particularly sensitive to cold and acidic foods or drinks. During this period, avoid staining substances such as coffee, black tea, red wine, and smoking to protect the results and prevent potential irritation.
03.
Who should avoid bleaching?
Individuals with leaking fillings, cavities, or extremely sensitive tooth necks should avoid bleaching. This is also why a prior dental examination is essential to assess tooth condition and rule out potential risks.
04.
Gum Protection
Through individualized treatment planning and protective measures, side effects such as sensitivity and gum irritation can be minimized. The gums are covered before bleaching, and the bleaching gel is applied precisely to the teeth to protect the enamel. After the treatment, the teeth are treated with fluoride and calcium to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
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Results and Longevity
The results of a bleaching treatment are often visible immediately afterward. The degree of whitening depends on the original tooth color, the type of discoloration, and the bleaching method used. Professionally performed bleaching in the dental clinic ensures a uniform, radiant result.
Durability of Results
The longevity of bleaching results varies depending on individual habits and oral care. Generally, the whitened teeth remain bright for one to two years. Factors such as consumption of staining foods and drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine) or smoking can cause the whitening effect to fade more quickly.
Touch-up bleaching
If the whitening effect fades over time, a touch-up bleaching can be performed. These touch-ups are usually less intensive than the initial treatment.
Schedule your personal consultation – book online now →Bleaching Treatment Procedure
Professional bleaching in our dental clinic follows a clear procedure to ensure that your teeth are optimally prepared for the best results.
Consultation and Examination
Before bleaching, a thorough examination is conducted to determine whether your teeth are suitable for treatment. The dentist checks for issues such as cavities, leaking fillings, or sensitive tooth necks that need to be addressed beforehand. During this step, the desired tooth shade is discussed, and the most suitable bleaching method is selected.
Tooth Preparation
The teeth are first professionally cleaned to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains. This ensures that the bleaching agent can act evenly. The gums are then protected with a special barrier to prevent irritation.
Application of the Bleaching Gel
The bleaching gel is applied to the tooth surfaces and may be activated with a light source or laser, depending on the method. The application time usually ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the desired level of whitening. The gel may be reapplied if necessary.
Completion of Treatment
After the gel has worked, it is removed, and the teeth are treated with a fluoride or calcium paste to strengthen them and reduce sensitivity. This protects the enamel and ensures long-lasting results.
Proper Care and Aftercare
Proper care and aftercare following bleaching are crucial to maintain the achieved results over the long term and to minimize any potential sensitivity. Here are the key points you should keep in mind:
01.
Avoiding Staining Foods and Drinks
Immediately after bleaching, your teeth are particularly prone to staining. For the first 48 hours, avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks such as coffee, black tea, red wine, curry, and brightly colored juices. Smoking should also be avoided during this period, as it can cause faster discoloration.
02.
Use fluoride toothpaste
To strengthen tooth enamel and prevent sensitivity, use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride protects the enamel and helps reduce any sensitivity that may result from bleaching.
03.
Oral Hygiene
Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash help maintain the results of your bleaching treatment. Thorough oral hygiene removes plaque and prevents the buildup of new stains.
04.
Professional teeth cleaning
Regular professional teeth cleanings at the dentist help maintain your bleaching results for longer. During these sessions, deposits and stains are removed before they can affect the appearance of your teeth.
Book your personal consultation online now →Author
Dr. Matthias Göstel
Dentist, Medical Director
Dental Clinic Vienna Döbling
22.12.2025
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Phone
You can reach us Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM to schedule your appointment by phone.
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office@zwd.at →Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or book a consultation. You can reach us Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM at 01 320 97 97 or use our online booking system. We look forward to welcoming you to our clinic!
Bleaching at the dentist is generally more effective and safer than at-home treatments. Dentists use stronger bleaching agents that are professionally applied and closely monitored.
Professional teeth bleaching at the dentist starts with a thorough examination and professional dental cleaning. Afterwards, a bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and, in some cases, activated with a light or laser. The entire procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes and delivers immediate results.
Yes, root canal treated teeth can be whitened using a procedure called internal tooth bleaching. The bleaching agent is applied directly inside the non-vital tooth, as conventional external bleaching is usually ineffective for discoloration in treated teeth. Whether this method is suitable for you should be discussed with our specialists.
Over-the-counter bleaching products from the drugstore can produce mild whitening effects, but they are less effective than professional treatments. They contain a lower concentration of bleaching agents and cannot achieve the same results as bleaching performed by a dentist. Using these products without prior dental examination is not recommended.
Professional teeth whitening at the dentist delivers faster and more noticeable results because stronger bleaching agents are used. The treatment is safe and supervised by a dentist to minimize potential side effects and effectively brighten your teeth.
There are several bleaching methods, including in-office bleaching (professional bleaching at the dental clinic), home bleaching (using custom-made trays), and over-the-counter products. Natural whitening methods, such as baking soda or activated charcoal, are often advertised but are not recommended, as they can damage tooth enamel.
Before teeth whitening, questions regarding the health of your teeth, any existing dental conditions (such as cavities or periodontitis), and sensitivities should be discussed. Expectations regarding the results and the longevity of the whitening effect should also be clarified.
During teeth bleaching at our dental clinic, a special bleaching agent is applied to the teeth. First, your gums are protected to prevent irritation. Then, the bleaching agent is activated using light or laser, which accelerates the whitening process. The agent penetrates the enamel and breaks down the pigments that caused discoloration. A single session usually lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, and depending on the desired result, multiple sessions may be necessary. The results are immediately visible, leaving your teeth noticeably whiter.
Teeth bleaching can be performed on sensitive teeth, but it should be done with caution. The dentist may choose a gentler method or use special protective measures to minimize sensitivity.
Professionally performed bleaching is generally safe and does not harm the teeth. However, if bleaching is done incorrectly or too frequently, it can lead to enamel weakening and increased sensitivity.
With active periodontitis, bleaching should not be performed. Only after successful treatment of the gum disease should teeth whitening be considered, as bleaching could otherwise further irritate the gums.
The longevity of teeth bleaching results varies depending on oral care and lifestyle habits. Typically, the effect lasts about one to two years. Factors such as consuming staining foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine) or smoking can cause the results to fade more quickly.
It is recommended not to have bleaching more than once a year to protect the enamel.
The teeth whitening procedure itself is usually nearly painless. Some teeth may become slightly sensitive during the treatment. Some patients may also experience temporary sensitivity afterward, especially to cold or heat. This sensitivity typically subsides within 48 hours.
Most superficial stains caused by foods, drinks, or smoking can be removed through bleaching. However, discolorations caused by medications or genetic factors are more difficult to treat and may require multiple sessions or specialized methods.
Bleaching only affects natural tooth enamel and does not lighten dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, veneers, or fillings.
Tooth bleaching uses special chemical agents that break down color pigments in the enamel, effectively whitening the teeth. Whitening toothpaste, on the other hand, only removes surface stains through mild abrasive polishing and does not have a bleaching effect.
It is recommended to wait at least two hours after bleaching before eating or drinking. Especially staining foods and beverages should be avoided for at least 48 hours to preserve the achieved results.
Some dental practices offer bleaching treatments. However, it is recommended to choose a clinic or practice specialized in aesthetic dentistry that uses modern bleaching techniques to achieve the best and safest results.