When is a Good Time to Start Teeth Whitening?

If you are considering getting teeth whitening to improve your smile for a job interview, wedding, or another big event, you may be wondering when to start. The answer depends on the type of procedure you are having done and how much whiter you want your teeth to be.

Teeth whitening options

There are five main teeth whitening options. If you are considering an at-home option, you may want to consult with your dentist first, particularly if you have sensitive teeth, dark stains, a single dark tooth, multiple crowns or fillings, or dental restorations.

1. Whitening toothpaste

Regular toothpaste contains mild abrasives that remove light surface stains. Whitening toothpaste contains polishing or chemical agents that can remove darker stains. However, whitening toothpaste only removes surface stains and can only lighten the teeth by about one shade. Patients who use this product twice per day can expect to start seeing results in two to six weeks.

2. Whitening rinses

Whitening rinses help reduce plaque, prevent gum disease, and freshen breath, similarly to traditional mouthwashes. However, they also contain ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide, that help whiten teeth. Because the rinse is only in contact with the teeth for a few minutes per day, rinses may not produce as dramatic a whitening effect like some other products. Whitening rinses take about 12 weeks to work.

3. Over-the-counter strips and gels

Gels whiten teeth with a peroxide solution applied on the surface of your teeth with a small brush. Users can expect to start seeing results in a few days, though it takes about four months to get the full effect. Whitening strips take a similar amount of time to work, but instead of a gel, users apply a thin, clear strip that is coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel to their teeth. 

4. Teeth whitening trays

Teeth whitening trays can be purchased over the counter or from a dentist. These systems include a tray that resembles a mouth guard that is filled with a whitening gel with a peroxide-bleaching agent. The amount of whitening depends on the strength of the peroxide used and the amount of time the patient wears the tray. Most patients notice results in about a week. It takes two to four weeks to achieve the maximum amount of whitening.

5. In-office whitening treatments

A dentist can apply a whitening product directly to the patient's teeth with an in-office treatment. Patients who have in-office teeth whitening done may see immediate results after one 30- to 60-minute treatment. However, patients who want their teeth to be several shades whiter may need to return for additional treatments. 

Conclusion

Most at-home whitening products take several weeks to several months to achieve the desired whitening effect. These products may be an option for people who have an event coming up at least a couple of months down the road. Patients who need dramatic results in a short period of time may want to consider an in-office teeth whitening procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://stonecanyondental.com or call Stone Canyon Dental at (972) 996-3191 for an appointment in our Sunnyvale office.

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