What is a Tooth Whitening?

A professional tooth whitening removes any built-up stains or discoloration to lighten the teeth. In-office whitening uses bleaching to provide a quick and simple whitening. The results are dramatic, making tooth whitening a common dental request. If you are asking, “does teeth whitening work?” then our blog can help you!

Do I Need Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening is more effective for those with strong, healthy teeth and no dental crowns. Over time, teeth can become stained, discolored, and dull due to:

  • Food and drinks – Regular consumption of coffee, tea, pop, or red wine can cause staining.
  • Tobacco use – Nicotine leaves brown deposits on the teeth.
  • Trauma – Cracks in the teeth can collect debris and cause staining.
  • Age – Over time teeth begin to thin and show discoloration more easily

Brushing and flossing can help to prevent staining, but once stains have built up, they can be impossible to remove on your own. You might choose to have a professional tooth whitening treatment to restore your white smile. Other tooth-whitening strategies include whitening toothpaste, strips, and trays. While these methods can produce some improvement, they do not produce the same dramatic results that a professional whitening can provide.

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What to Expect During Treatment

Before having your teeth whitened, they must be prepared with treatment of any cavities that could affect the results of tooth whitening. Dr. Khan might photograph your teeth to show your whitening progress. Your teeth will then be cleaned to remove any bacteria, food, or debris. Dr. Khan will also suggest that you use sensitive toothpaste for about 1 week prior to your appointment to help reduce post-treatment sensitivity.

The process of tooth whitening is very simple. Dr. Khan will first apply a protective substance to the gums around the teeth. Then he will use a whitening product containing tooth bleach and apply it directly to the teeth. The process will be complete in about 30-60 minutes. While dramatic results can be achieved in just one treatment, several treatments might be required depending on the severity of your staining and the results you would like to achieve.

After Treatment

Serious side effects after tooth whitening treatment are unlikely. You might experience increased tooth sensitivity for a short time after treatment. You can notice the full results of your tooth whitening treatment after about two weeks. A professional tooth whitening can make teeth two to seven shades lighter.

Teeth whitening is not permanent but can be long-lasting. To maintain your results after treatment, you should continue good oral hygiene with proper flossing and brushing and seeing your dentist for regular checkups. Avoiding dark-colored drinks and tobacco can help maintain your results longer.

If you would like to improve the appearance of your teeth for a whiter smile, contact IKON Dental Group today.

Tooth Whitening Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to whiten teeth?

Professional in-office teeth whitening procedures can produce immediate results, often brightening teeth in just one session lasting about an hour. However, it's important to consider that results can be influenced by dietary habits, oral hygiene, and the natural color of your teeth.

Is teeth whitening at the dentist worth it?

Professional whitening procedures use high-concentration bleaching agents that can't be found in over-the-counter kits, offering a more dramatic and longer-lasting result. With a dentist's expertise, you're likely to see uniform results and have a safer experience compared to DIY methods.

Is teeth whitening bad for your teeth?

Professional whitening performed by a dentist typically ensures controlled application and personalized treatment plans, making it a safer option compared to over-the-counter products. Regular dental check-ups complement cosmetic treatments by addressing any underlying oral health concerns and ensuring the safety of the teeth whitening process.

Is teeth whitening painful?

Most individuals experience little to no pain during the teeth whitening process. For the best results and the least risk of pain or sensitivity, many opt for professional whitening services administered by a dentist.

Can laser whitening damage your teeth?

Laser whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure designed to remove stains and discoloration, resulting in whiter teeth. It's essential to have laser whitening done by a trusted dental professional to minimize risks and ensure the safest, most effective results for a brighter smile.

Does whitening remove stains?

Essentially, whitening treatments are designed to lighten teeth by breaking down stains caused by common culprits such as coffee, red wine, soda, and tobacco. Professional whitening uses stronger bleaching agents and provides more dramatic and swift results, typically capable of addressing deeper and more stubborn discoloration.

What to expect after teeth whitening?

After undergoing teeth whitening, patients typically notice an immediate difference in the brightness and whiteness of their teeth. It is common to experience tooth sensitivity after the whitening procedure, but this usually subsides within a few days. Preparation with a sensitivity toothpaste 1-2 weeks prior to treatment can help reduce sensitivity side effects from professional whitening.

Is there a difference between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching?

Teeth whitening refers to the process of restoring the natural tooth color by removing dirt and debris. On the other hand, teeth bleaching is specifically for whitening teeth beyond their natural color. Whitening is more cleaning-focused and aims to get teeth back to their natural color by removing surface stains.

How do I keep my teeth white after whitening?

Maintaining the brightness of your teeth after a whitening treatment involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices and lifestyle choices. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily is essential to remove plaque and particles that can lead to staining.

How much does it cost to get your teeth professionally whitened?

The cost of professional teeth whitening varies widely depending on the whitening method used, and additional services included in the treatment. Generally, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $800 for an in-office whitening procedure.

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Dr. Izaz Khan

Dentist at Ikon Dental Group

Dr. Khan holds a Bachelor's in Physiology and Neurobiology from the University of Connecticut, a Master's in Biomolecular Sciences from Central Connecticut State University, and a dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He completed his residency in comprehensive dental care at the Samuel Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY.