If you are thinking about getting your teeth professionally whitened, you might be wondering how long it takes and lasts. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer. Often it depends on the starting colour of your teeth, the type of treatment used and what has discoloured your teeth in the first place. The treatments can take between 60 minutes and up to several weeks.
The Whitening process
Teeth whitening involves the use of chemicals that penetrate the enamel of the teeth and work from the inside out to professionally bleach the teeth. The treatment is applied using a bespoke mouth guard tray. A tray is used to ensure the dental whitening treatment surrounds all of the areas for equal whitening without damaging the gums. For this tray, a patient will need an appointment prior to having this created. For professional teeth whitening, you often need 2 or 3 visits to your dentist.
Once the tray is moulded your teeth whitening dentist will apply the whitening substance. Often hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide and fit the tray over the teeth. The active ingredient then breaks down the enamel and provides oxygen to the teeth. This results in a lightening of the tooth colour.
How Long Will It Last?
It is important to understand that teeth whitening isn’t permanent. On average it can last between a few months to up to 3 years, however, depends on an individual’s aftercare. There are certain habits a person can change to ensure it last as long as possible. Habits including:
- Avoid coloured drinks such as red wine and fizzy drinks such as Coca-Cola. If consumption is still required using a straw could reduce the damage to your teeth.
- Stop smoking as the smoke reduces the lack of oxygen in your bloodstream, therefore, discolouring your teeth.
- Avoid caffeine such as tea and coffee but also dark chocolate. Tannins which can be found in coffee can cause colour components to stick to your teeth, leaving them yellow.
- Reducing the amount of acidic food and drink consumed. This can include fruit juice, vinegar, and some sauces. The acid from these products can cause the loss of tooth enamel, therefore revealing the dentin which is a naturally darker and yellow colour.
With such a widespread of treatment options, Grosvenor Dental are happy to take you through your options. The options include both in surgery and at-home treatment plans, to suit you. If you are already one of our dental plan members, we are currently offering free professional teeth whitening. For the best prices, service, and professionalism, contact our highly-skilled teeth whitening dentists today.
