How to use take-home whitening trays
Take-home whitening is a safe, effective, and convenient way to brighten your smile at your own pace. For the best results, please follow these instructions carefully.
Getting started
Your dentist will have provided you with custom-fitted whitening trays and a whitening gel — always use these together for the best fit and most even results
Do not use whitening gel in trays that do not fit properly — ill-fitting trays can cause the gel to leak onto your gums and cause irritation
Whiten at a time that suits your routine — many patients prefer to whiten at night before bed so the trays can work while they are relaxed and not eating or drinking
How to use your whitening trays
Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before whitening
Dispense a small amount of whitening gel into each tooth compartment of the tray — a pea-sized amount per tooth is sufficient. Do not overfill
Seat the tray firmly over your teeth
Wipe away any excess gel that spills onto your gums immediately using a clean finger or cotton bud — leaving gel on the gums can cause irritation
Wear the trays for the recommended duration as instructed by your dentist — this varies depending on the concentration of gel prescribed
Remove the trays, rinse your mouth with water, and clean the trays with a soft toothbrush under cold water
Store the trays in their case in a cool, dry place
To use up any whitening gel syringe that's opened ASAP after putting in fridge. Unopened gel syringe can be kept in cool dry place until expiry.
How long and how often
Wear time and frequency will depend on the concentration of gel your dentist has prescribed — always follow their specific instructions
Most take-home whitening programmes are used for 1–2 weeks to achieve the desired result
Do not exceed the recommended wear time per session — more is not always better and can increase sensitivity
Phillips Nitewhite is 16% Carbamide peroxide (recommended for patients with more sensitivity): Wear time 2 hours , 2 weeks. do not wear overnight if it’s too sensitive
Phillips Daywhite 6% Hydrogen peroxide: Wear time 30 mins, 2 weeks
After each whitening session
Avoid staining foods and beverages for at least 30 minutes after removing your trays — ideally for the duration of your whitening programme
Use a sensitive toothpaste throughout your whitening programme to minimise discomfort
Some sensitivity between sessions is normal — if it becomes uncomfortable, take a day off and resume the following day
Maintaining your results
Once you have achieved your desired shade, occasional top-up sessions every few months will help maintain results
Store any remaining gel in the refrigerator to preserve its effectiveness — check the expiry date before using
Your custom trays will last longer if cared for properly — bring them to future appointments for top-up gel
💡 Dr Watt's tip: Consistency is key with take-home whitening. Stick to the schedule and you'll see the best results! 😊
