The holidays mean getting all gussied up to celebrate the season. Between all the photo opportunities and holiday parties, we all want to look and feel our best. Our smile makes a significant impression on those we meet this holiday season, so you might be thinking about whitening your teeth for the festivities. How long does it take to whiten your teeth?
Answering the question, “How long does it take to whiten my teeth?” is not as simple as you may think. The answer will depend on the condition of the teeth, how the discoloration happened, and the type of treatment the patient selects.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Teeth whitening is a process that utilizes chemicals that penetrate the enamel of the teeth to bleach them professionally. First, the dentist will make a tray, like a mouthguard, from an imprint of the patient’s teeth. Then, a solution with an active ingredient is placed in the tray to whiten the teeth. This custom tray ensures that all nuances of an individual’s teeth are covered for equal whitening and little effect on the gums.
What is My Time Frame?
The amount of time it will take to whiten the teeth will depend on the stain on the teeth. Sometimes, a professional can complete an in-office teeth whitening in an hour or two. But in many cases, teeth whitening is a three to four-week process. If you have more significant discoloration, you might need more time to reach your desired shade of white.
Once the mouth guard is customized to the patient’s mouth, treatment can be done from the comfort of your home. You will need to consistently apply the whitening product for two to four weeks. Your dentist will instruct you on the amount of application, depending on the amount of stain. Typically, the treatment session takes about 30 minutes each time.
If you visit the dentist for in-office treatments, they can usually reach your desired shade of white in one or two visits, with results in a matter of hours.
What About OTC Whitening Kits?
There are many over the counter (OTC) whitening kits on the market. While these can do the trick, they typically take much longer, wearing them every night for at least a month. Additionally, because they are not customized to your unique mouth and tooth shape, there is more risk of getting the solution on the gums or not covering the teeth.
Value Dental Care offers teeth whitening services. If you are interested in teeth whitening or due for a cleaning and exam, contact Value Dental Care. Our trained staff is always ready to help you with your oral care needs. We offer high-quality care at affordable prices. Email or call us today to schedule an appointment at our Spring Hill (352-684-1274) or Crystal River (352-794-6139) locations.
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