How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take

It is normal for teeth to yellow or become stained over time, but teeth whitening can return a smile to its original brightness. The American Association of Orthodontics reports that more than 30% of Americans are unhappy with their smile. Getting teeth whitened is a simple, easy process that can help anyone regain confidence in smiling.

Understanding teeth whitening

As with any dental procedure, it is essential to understand the fundamentals of teeth whitening before committing to it. Knowing how long whitening takes, what is involved in the process and when to return for a second appointment can help a patient make the right decision for their teeth. Here is what one might expect when looking to whiten teeth and options for proper whitening.

Time

The time it takes to restore a smile depends heavily on the condition of the teeth and the chosen process for whitening. A tooth with stains may take longer to whiten than a tooth that has only yellowed with age. Teeth that are considerably discolored will likely require more work than teeth that have minor streaks. On top of that, some at-home procedures take more time than a procedure completed in a dental professional’s office. Even then, treatment may require multiple appointments over the course of several weeks.

Process

No matter which teeth whitening treatment a patient chooses, each uses the same technology to make teeth sparkle. All bleaching agents contain a certain amount of peroxide. How quickly the teeth whiten is relative to the amount of peroxide in the bleach. An agent with a higher percentage of peroxide will whiten teeth at a fast pace, but it can only be kept in the mouth for a short time; otherwise, there is a risk of creating dehydrated, sensitive teeth. A dentist can advise a patient on the proper timeline for each treatment.

Treatment options for whitening

There is a wide range of options for teeth whitening. A patient can choose one based on budget, effectiveness, longevity of results, or number of applications. These are the most common forms of whitening.

Professional whitening

A patient can make an appointment to get teeth whitened by a dental professional. This kind of treatment is usually incredibly quick and can be completed in a single appointment. While longer-lasting results may require follow-up appointments, this is a great option for those who need immediate whitening, e.g., for a special upcoming event.

Whitening strips

Strips are an at-home form of treatment that anyone can do. Generally, the strips are applied to teeth for an hour every day. This process may be repeated for several weeks to obtain desirable results.

Gels

Using a tray filled with a bleaching gel provides flexibility in choosing a whitening agent. Each person can pick the strength of the agent and wear the tray for the allotted amount of time for that agent. To whiten teeth faster, the tray can be worn for a maximum time.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Tomball, TX.

Conclusion

There is no reason to feel self-conscious about teeth. Plenty of options exist to keep teeth white and clean for a smile worth showing off.

Request an appointment or call Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA at 281-864-1581 for an appointment in our Tomball office.

Recent Posts

4 Tips For Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Teeth whitening is potent and effective in rejuvenating your smile. This treatment takes one dental appointment. But making the results last will make the effort worthwhile. Caring for your whitened teeth is important. If you want to know about caring for your whitened teeth, here are four tips to consider.The effects of teeth whitening can…

How Dental Bonding Is Used For Cosmetic And Restorative Dentistry

Dental bonding is an efficient way to restore the appearance and function of teeth. Your cosmetic dentist can use this to repair any damage, discoloration, or decay. Cracked, chipped, broken, or stained teeth can look new. This type of treatment can also close gaps between teeth. If you want to know how dental bonding works…

Root Canal Aftercare: Tips For A Smooth Recovery

Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking. Caring for the treated tooth can be even more stressful. Knowing what to do after the treatment can help you prepare well for it. Here are some tips for a smooth and quick recovery after your root canal.The patient must wait to eat as…

Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA

Share
Published by
Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA

Recent Posts

How Dental Bonding Is Used for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

Dental bonding is an efficient way to restore the appearance and function of teeth.

20 hours ago

Root Canal Aftercare: Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking.

1 month ago

How a Dentist Can Save a Broken Tooth

If you have a broken tooth, seek your dentist's advice right away.

2 months ago

Can All-on-4 Replace Multiple Teeth?

The technology in All-on-4 is the same as the technology in traditional dental implants.

3 months ago

What to Do When You Have a Chipped Tooth

Crowns can match the rest of the teeth and be unnoticeable within the mouth.

4 months ago

3 Material Options For Dental Crowns

Looking for further information on dental crowns? Talking with a general dentist is the best…

5 months ago