Unfortunately, not everyone is born with a pearly white smile or will keep the one we are born with for the rest of our lives. The consumption of certain foods and beverages, and even some medications and aging, can cause teeth discoloration, such as gray and yellow, or turn other colors besides the desired bright white.
If your teeth aren't a bright white now or never were, you may be interested in teeth whitening. One factor to consider when deciding which route to go is how long the teeth whitening results will last. If you want longer-lasting, dependable results, professional teeth whitening is usually the best option.
Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening
The most effective way to whiten your teeth is with a professional in-office teeth whitening treatment. Your dentist can perform the teeth whitening procedure several times until your desired results are achieved. Professional teeth whitening treatment results can last between one and three years—the longest of all whitening treatments.
Many dental offices also offer the option of take-home professional teeth whitening treatments. Usually, you can use these treatments once a day for up to two weeks. Like the ones that are performed in their office, these results can last about one year or even longer.
Various factors that impact how long your teeth whitening results last include:
- Your diet
- If you smoke
- Your age
- How well you care for your smile post-whitening treatment
- The natural color of your teeth
At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
A variety of at-home dental teeth whitening kits are available for purchase over-the-counter. While these kits might seem convenient to do in the comfort of your own home, teeth whitening can take a lot longer with them, up to four to six weeks, and they might not be as effective.
Keep in mind that results can vary by each individual; however, with an at-home kit, you can expect the results of your treatment to last four to six months, with touch-ups as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Teeth Whitening
Is Scaling and Polishing Necessary Before Teeth Whitening?
While the whitening process eliminates stains and plaque, it's not a substitute for scaling and polishing. If tartar can be seen on the surfaces of the teeth, scaling and polishing will be necessary before teeth whitening.
Can Teeth Whitening Gel be Used on My Sensitive Teeth?
The tolerance for teeth whitening gel varies from one dental patient to the next. Some individuals suffer reversible tooth sensitivity, and others have varying degrees of gum irritation after the use of whitening gel. However, decreasing the length of teeth bleaching sessions and increasing the length of time between sessions will reduce sensitivity and irritation.
Teeth Whitening at Fabey Dental
If you're looking for a reliable dentist with teeth whitening skills and experience, call Fabey Dental at 610-810-2704 to make an appointment or request an appointment online. If you call by 12:00 p.m., you have the option to be seen the same day. To find the best teeth whitening option for you, contact us today.