Common FAQ About Teeth Whitening

Closeup of dentist examining young woman’s teeth

How long will my teeth remain white after treatment?

If your teeth are properly whitened, you should be able to maintain a pearly white smile for about 1 year before considering going for another touch up. However, it is important to avoid the root causes of teeth discoloration by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you want you teeth to stay white longer, then cut back on coffee, tea, dark wines, colas and colored processed foods. And whenever you do partake of these, remember to rinse out your mouth immediately with water, brush your teeth or eat a crunchy fruit or vegetable like an apple, celery stick or carrot stick.

How much does it cost?

Well, teeth whitening can be both cheap and expensive. It all depends on your budget, the condition of your teeth and what kind of results you want to get. Home kits and products can cost from $6-40, while a visit to your dentist for a whitening treatment can cost about $400-500 per session. Home kits are cheap but the results take time to see, while a dental visit can get you a pearly white smile in less than an hour and successfully whiten even the worst of dark stained teeth.

What are the best products to use?

There are lots of whitening products on the market and it’s often confusing on what’s best. Basically look for well-known brand name products and find out what other consumers are saying about their experience with the product. If in doubt, consult your dentist who will advise you on the best products for your teeth.

Do I need to visit my dentist or can I whiten my teeth at home?

Either option is alright but in certain cases, a trip to the dentist will do you well. If you have had dental problems in the past or have fillings, veneers, crowns or braces, then you definitely need to consult your dentist. Also if you have very dark brown stains or your tooth appears to be gray, then home treatments will not whiten your teeth much and you will need in-office treatment. Finally, the dentist route is best if you want quick results, but if you have the patience to wait things out, you can do it at home.

Will teeth whitening treatments damage my teeth?

If used correctly, no. Tests have shown that the 10% peroxide level doesn’t damage your teeth enamel or any dental work such as fillings or crowns. The only effects are tooth sensitivity which usually disappears after a few days.

When will I see results?

If you use home whitening products then you should see results after 2-4 weeks. If you choose a professional treatment at your dentist’s office, your teeth should be whiter in 45minutes to 1 hour. However if your teeth are badly stained, you may need to attend another teeth whitening session.

Come to Harbour Place Dental in Mukilteo with your questions and concerns and we will be happy to give you our best evaluation and advice.