The main method of whitening your teeth involves using trays at home with a whitening gel. The trays hold the whitening gel (carbamide peroxide) against your teeth. The gel penetrates the tooth surface and breaks down stains within the tooth.
Tooth whitening will improve the colour of your natural teeth, it will not whiten fillings/crowns/bridges or dentures.
There are some risks involved with tooth whitening. It can cause the teeth to become increasingly sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. For those who already suffer from sensitivity it can worsen. The gums can also become irritated especially if they come into contact with the product used.