Questions Regarding Tooth Whitening – How Long Until I See Results?

Having whiter teeth can boost your self-confidence, improve your appearance, and make you look younger. According to a recent survey published in Dentistry Journal, 80 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 49 want whiter teeth. If you are considering whitening your teeth, you may have some questions. Specifically, how long it will take to see results. Here we’ll reveal answers to some important questions about tooth whitening.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth can become discolored for a wide range of reasons. Factors such as certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, poor dental hygiene, certain medications, advanced age, genetics, trauma, and environmental factors such as excessive fluoride. Teeth whitening works by using one of two types of bleach -hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When applied to the teeth, these bleaches break up stains which causes the color to be less concentrated, resulting in a brighter smile.

Is Tooth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening techniques have been heavily evaluated over the years to create products that are both safe and effective. Materials that are used by a non-dental professional illegally for teeth whitening could pose complications. Problems such as swelling of the tongue and lips, burns to the mouth, sensitivity, and other ailments can surface. However, when tooth whitening services are administered by a trained and licensed Clermont dentist, the procedure is very safe.

What are the Side Effects of Tooth Whitening?

It is very common for teeth whitening to cause some degree of tooth sensitivity. After a tooth whitening procedure, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold fluids or may feel some discomfort when your teeth are exposed to cold air. However, any sensitivity caused by bleaching should subside within 24 to 48 hours on average. If sensitivity continues, discuss your concerns with your dentist in Clermont FL.

How Long Does In-Office Teeth Whitening Take?

If you choose to undergo tooth whitening at your dentist in Clermont, know that the procedure is fast and simple. Most patients will walk out of the office with their teeth at least two to three shades lighter than on arrival. The average tooth whitening procedure takes about 90 minutes. Depending on the amount of lightening your smile needs, it may take several sessions before you reach your desired shade. Teeth whitening procedures should also be repeated on a regular basis to maintain results.

Does Bleaching Only Work on Natural Teeth?

It is important to remember that tooth whitening procedures and products only work on natural tooth structure. This means that bleaching agents will not be effective when used on caps, crowns, veneers, bridges, or bonding material. It may be necessary to have any dental work replaced after tooth whitening to match your newly whitened teeth.

Does At-Home Teeth Whitening Work?

Many patients try to save time or money by whitening their teeth at home. Today, there are thousands of tooth whitening products on the market that claim to whiten teeth up to eight shades. However, there are some risks involved when whitening your teeth at home such as an increased risk of sensitivity. At-home teeth whitening is generally not as effective as in-office whitening procedures. This is because a lower concentration of bleach is used in at-home kits. In-office whitening is also performed by trained dental professionals.

How Long Until I See Results?

One of the most common questions asked in regards to tooth whitening is how long it takes to see results. Most patients will see results immediately following the in-office procedure. The full effects of tooth whitening can usually be seen after the first 24 hours. If you use at-home whitening kits, it can take longer to see results. Due to the lower concentration of whitening agents, it can take upwards of two to three weeks to achieve the results you are looking for.

Schedule a Professional Tooth Whitening

When patients follow a healthy diet, avoid teeth staining food and drink, avoid smoking, and maintain regular dental cleanings, the results of teeth whitening can last several months to a year. The results can also be maintained with at-home custom whitening trays. Contact your local dentists at Hancock Village Dental today to schedule professional tooth whitening services.