Many people long to have sparklingly bright white teeth, though very few come by them naturally. Even perfectly healthy teeth are more ivory than snowy because of the darker layer of dentin beneath your enamel.
That means you will likely need teeth whitening to achieve the ideal shade, and it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. For instance, you might wonder how many treatments you’ll need. Continue reading to learn more about it to make an educated decision regarding upgrading your grin!
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Most teeth whiteners contain a bleaching agent, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, that have a chemical reaction when they come into contact with chromogens (colored molecules) on your enamel. They undergo an oxidation process that breaks down the pigmented particles into smaller, less saturated bits.
This topical treatment is ideal for addressing surface stains in your enamel that result from prolonged or repeated exposure to deeply toned foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and berries. Not all discoloration is responsive to this method, though. If you’re dealing with blemishes that seeped into or began in the lower layers of your teeth, you may need veneers or dental bonding to enhance your appearance.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Worth It?
There are many over-the-counter products that claim to brighten your smile, so many patients want to know whether it’s worth it to work with their dentist, instead. However, when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, the quality of the work is often reflected in its price.
Commercially available pastes, strips, and gels typically contain diluted bleaching agents. Plus, they rely on one-size-fits-all applicators. Many folks have inadvertently misapplied or overused these harsh chemicals, resulting in tooth sensitivity.
Meanwhile, your dentist can provide a take-home kit with professional-grade supplies for optimal results from the comfort of your home. They’ll include ultra-concentrated gels that are designed to mitigate potential adverse effects. They can also provide custom-fitted trays to improve your comfort and the accuracy of the outcome.
How Many Teeth Whitening Sessions Will I Need?
The number of times you’ll need to repeat your treatment depends on your unique situation. For example, those with slightly off-white teeth are more likely to achieve the perfect tone after one application whereas someone with more stubborn stains might require several. Your dentist can work with you to let you know how soon you can repeat treatment to avoid causing any damage.
The results can last anywhere from six months to three years, but you might need an occasional touch-up to refresh your grin if it fades. You can maintain your results by brushing and flossing twice daily and avoiding dark foods known to cause problems!
Meet the Author
Dr. Kim Turnbow has 10+ years of experience helping improve people’s lives by enhancing their dental health. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and dedicates 40 to 50+ hours annually to ongoing education. She offers a comprehensive array of services under one roof to meet all your family’s needs, including professional-grade teeth whitening take-home kits. If you’re ready to upgrade your appearance, you can request a consultation on the website or call (830) 626-1111.