In today’s world, everyone wants to have a healthy and attractive smile. One of the ways to get that is by having a set of pearly white teeth. A bright smile can do wonders, but sometimes, achieving it might be an uphill task. There are a variety of ways to get your teeth brighter and whiter, but the question is, how long will it take? In this article, we will reveal the truth about how long it takes for teeth to whiten.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that involves using products, such as teeth whitening strips, gels, pastes, and even laser treatments, to get your teeth brighter and whiter. The process involves removing stains, discoloration, and other types of dental discoloration that make the teeth look dull and yellow.
The Factors Involved in Tooth Discoloration
The time that it takes for teeth to whiten varies depending on factors such as:
- The severity of the staining. The cause of staining and how long it has been on the teeth.
- The type of discoloration. Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic stains that affect the outer layer of teeth. Intrinsic discoloration that affects the dentin may require other teeth whitening procedures.
- The method of whitening used. Certain teeth whitening products, such as teeth whitening strips, may take longer to work compared to other methods, such as laser treatments.
- The frequency of use. Regular use of teeth whitening products may produce faster results compared to occasional use.
How Long Does It Take for Teeth to Whiten?
The amount of time it takes for teeth to whiten varies from one person to another, depending on several factors. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to get the desired results of teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening Strips
Teeth whitening strips are a popular way of achieving whiter teeth. Typically, the strips are used for 30 minutes at a time, twice per day. The length of time it takes for teeth to whiten using strips varies, but it can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days before you start to see noticeable results.
Teeth Whitening Gels and Pastes
Teeth whitening gels and pastes work by applying the product to the teeth using a tray or applicator. The products are left on for several hours, depending on the type of gel or paste used. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for teeth to whiten using gels and pastes, depending on the severity of the staining.
Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening is a fast and effective way of achieving whiter teeth. A dentist or dental professional will apply a bleaching agent to the teeth and then use a special laser to activate the product. The entire process can be completed in one visit, and results are noticeable immediately.
How to Maintain Whiter Teeth
Once you have achieved your desired level of whiteness, it is important to maintain your teeth to prevent future staining. Here are some tips:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day using a whitening toothpaste.
- Avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Using a straw when consuming staining beverages to minimize contact with teeth.
- Flossing daily to remove any particles that may cause staining.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is an effective way of getting a brighter, whiter smile. However, it is important to remember that the time that it takes to achieve the desired results varies depending on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you choose the best method for your individual needs while giving you realistic expectations of what to expect, so you are not disappointed.
FAQs
Q: Can teeth whitening be harmful to my teeth?
A: Teeth whitening is generally safe for most people. However, you should follow the instructions provided by the product that you are using or consult a dental professional before using any product.
Q: Can teeth whitening products work for everyone?
A: Teeth whitening products can work for most people, but not everyone. The effectiveness of teeth whitening products varies depending on the severity of the staining and the root cause of the discoloration.
Q: How long does teeth whitening last?
A: Teeth whitening typically lasts for several months to a year, depending on the maintenance routine and habits of the individual.
Q: How soon can I drink coffee after teeth whitening?
A: It is recommended to wait at least 48 hours after teeth whitening before consuming staining beverages.
Q: Can natural teeth whitening remedies work?
A: Some natural remedies such as baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal, and apple cider vinegar may have teeth staining effects, but none has been scientifically proven to effectively whiten teeth.
Q: Is it normal to experience tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening?
A: Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, especially after laser treatments or using high concentration gels. The sensitivity usually goes away a few days after the teeth whitening procedure.
References
- ADA Council on Scientific Affairs. (2009). Tooth whitening/bleaching: treatment considerations for dentists and their patients. Journal of the American Dental Association (1939), 140 Suppl, 22S–28S.
- Clinical trial of efficacy and safety of whitening toothpaste containing papain and bromelain extracts among male smokers: A randomized controlled trial. (2018). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(4), 521–528.
- Goldberg, M., & Grootveld, M. (2013). Laser teeth whitening: successful management of staining associated with fluorosis using a 2780-nm YSGG wavelength laser: a case report. Journal of clinical and experimental dentistry, 5(3), e159–e163.