How Long Does It Take To Whiten Teeth at The Dentist?
When patients are considering or about to undergo a whitening procedure most ask, “how long does it take to whiten teeth?” This is a valid question, however, there is not a one size fits all answer. It largely depends on how discolored your teeth are, and the condition of your teeth.
Factors to Know About Teeth Whitening:
What is Teeth Whitening?
A teeth whitening treatment involves using chemicals that penetrate the enamel of the teeth and work from the inside out to professional bleach the teeth. A specific tray that looks like a mouth guard is used throughout the entire process and the active ingredients is placed in it.
An implant of the patient’s teeth is taken in order to create a mold for the whitening process to ensure that the whitening formula goes in all areas of the teeth equally.
Then, a whitening substance like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is placed onto whitening tray and onto the teeth. The active ingredient breaks down and delivers oxygen into the enamel, lightening the color of the teeth.
Why Do I Need My Teeth To Be Whitened?
As we get older it is normal for teeth to become discolored. The discoloring process is accelerated from your daily coffee or tea, and from wine.
How Long Does It Take To Whiten Teeth?
Depends on the amount of stain on the teeth, so treatment time may vary. It is most typical for a treatment to last about one hour with results in a matter of hours.
What About Whitening Toothpastes?
You may be familiar with the different varieties at the supermarket. However, they do not affect the color of teeth. They are only slightly effective for removing surface staining. Toothpastes can take two to six weeks to make teeth appear whiter from surface stains.
How Can I Look After My Teeth Once They Have Been Whitened?
After whitening your teeth you can prolong your treatment by cutting the amount of sugary foods and drinks you consume.
When drinking coffee and tea, use a straw if possible. By brushing your teeth twice a day, it can help to prevent new staining.
Is Teeth Whitening For Everyone?
While a majority of people qualify as teeth whitening candidates, there are some people who do not, such as children and pregnant or nursing mothers. Teeth whitening also doesn’t work on any ‘false’ teeth, such as dentures, veneers or crowns. Although, there are ways that your dentist can clean and whiten those as well.
San Antonio’s Wurzbach Parkway Family Dental provides cosmetic dental procedures and professionalism, so we can assist with any questions you may have with whitening. For a consultation, or teeth whitening appointment, call( 210)877-2273 or schedule your appointment online today.
