Many people wanting a brighter smile have turned to over-the-counter products only to end up disappointed. Commercially available options often have one-size-fits-all applicators that leave plenty of room for error. Plus, they often contain more diluted bleaching agents that don’t provide the desired results, and you might develop sensitivity if you overapply or misuse them.
Thankfully, your dentist can upgrade your grin safely with professional teeth whitening services. If you’re curious about how many sessions you’ll need to achieve your ideal shade, continue reading to learn more about it!
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Years of exposure to darkly tinted foods and drinks can leave your teeth looking worse for wear. Pigmented particles can bind with saliva or cling to your enamel, leaving them a darker yellow or brown shade. Topical whitening treatments typically include a bleaching agent like carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. These materials undergo a chemical reaction in your mouth that breaks down the stained particles, reducing the saturation of the color on your teeth.
An hour-long in-office appointment can potentially lighten your grin by up to eight shades for instant enhancement. However, if you prefer, many dentists also provide take-home kits with professional-grade gels and custom-fitted trays for more gradual results from your living room.
How Many Teeth Whitening Treatments Will I Need?
Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure, meaning it’s intended to boost your appearance more than your oral health. As a result, most dental insurance policies don’t include coverage, and many patients want to know how much it will cost. The total amount due depends on how many treatments you’ll need to achieve the perfect shade, so it varies from person to person.
For instance, if your teeth are slightly off-white, you might only need one session with your dentist to make the changes you hope to see. Those with more severe stains or blemishes are more likely to require repeated treatments to get there.
How Can I Maintain My Teeth Whitening Results?
Professional teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to three years, depending on how well you care for your grin. You can keep your teeth looking lighter for longer by:
- Watching what you eat. Common culprits like coffee, tea, blueberries, or tomato sauce can cause additional discoloration.
- Implement a routine. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque and bacteria so your enamel can better resist stains and other damage.
- Schedule regular visits. You should also see your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. Not only will they catch and address any areas of concern before they progress, but they’ll also polish your teeth to remove more recent blemishes from the surface.
Consulting your dentist is the best way to find out how much teeth whitening you will need to achieve your personal smile goals!
Meet the Author
Dr. Anil Patel enjoys improving his patients’ quality of life by helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. He began his dental education in India and completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the Government Dental College Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Then, he moved to the U.S. and earned his DDS at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in Los Angeles. Now, he offers a full array of services to boost your confidence in your dental condition, including teeth whitening. He offers in-office procedures and customized take-home kits, depending on your preference. You can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 717-6788.