Teeth Whitening Q&A

Many people find teeth whitening to be the perfect way to improve their appearance. The side effects of teeth whitening are minimal, and the procedure can even be used for tetracycline staining or sensitive teeth. Teeth bleaching can also be a great alternative to the cost of higher priced cosmetic procedures.

Read on to view common questions about teeth whitening and find out how you can benefit from the procedure.

Is tooth whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is a very safe procedure that simply involves using a peroxide-based solution and/or a special light to remove stains and discoloration. In some forms, the process can be accomplished in as little as an hour.

Will teeth whitening affect my previous dental work?

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that is safe for patients who have had previous dental work. Your dentist will examine your existing dental work and oral hygiene before beginning the teeth whitening procedure. If there are signs that previous dental work has become weakened or needs to be fixed, your dentist will probably suggest repairs before continuing with the teeth whitening procedure.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

The teeth whitening procedure is not painful; however, some patients may experience minor sensitivity around the gum line after the procedure has taken place. Patients who prefer the take home teeth bleaching kits may request that their dentist provide them with a milder concentration of the peroxide-based gel used.

What kind of results can I expect?

Depending on the teeth whitening method used, many patients see results that are up to 10 shades whiter. For immediate results, in-office laser teeth whitening is the preferred treatment; however, with stronger peroxide gel solutions on the market, at-home results can also be dramatic with continued use. At-home bleaching kits are also convenient for touch-ups whenever they are necessary.

What if I have tetracycline staining?

Many patients have been able to dramatically reduce tetracycline staining with professional teeth whitening. Depending on the severity of the discoloration, some patients schedule multiple teeth whitening sessions or use a combination of methods to achieve the desired change. Your dentist will recommend the teeth whitening technique that will work best to combat tetracycline staining.

What are the side effects of teeth whitening?

The side effects of teeth whitening are very minimal and vary by individual. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, defective restorations, or severely receding gums, you should consult with your dentist before you begin any teeth whitening procedure. Many patients who have sensitive teeth can still benefit from treatment as long as they use a milder version of the peroxide whitening formula. Patients who are allergic to peroxide should not consider traditional teeth whitening methods.

Is there a teeth whitening system for sensitive teeth?

Teeth whitening for people with sensitive teeth is still an option. Most dentists will recommend a milder version of the whitening gel if the patient chooses the take-home method. Many patients who have issues with sensitive teeth prefer the one-hour in-office teeth whitening method as it is much faster, produces immediate results, and requires the bleaching gel to stay on for a much shorter period of time. Ask your dentist which method of teeth whitening is best for you.

Is teeth whitening permanent?

Teeth whitening can produce dramatic results. However, it is important to keep in mind that daily oral hygiene is an important part of maintaining teeth whitening results. Cigarette smoking, coffee, and tea will still stain the teeth after whitening. If this happens, an occasional touch-up with over-the-counter or take-home teeth whitening product should keep your teeth looking as good as they did following the professional teeth whitening procedure.

How much does teeth bleaching generally cost?

The cost of teeth whitening depends on several factors. Identical teeth whitening procedures can vary in price depending on the area in which you live. Many dentists use teeth whitening as a way of drawing in new patients and will offer specials on the procedure. As a guide for professional teeth whitening, you can probably count on spending between $300 and $800. Keep in mind that laser one-hour teeth whitening procedures such as Zoom!® and Rembrandt® will be closer to the higher end of this range than professional take-home trays. These can be as economical as $300.

As with any service, individual results and the amount of time you can devote to treatment are important factors to consider. Patients who are affected by tetracycline staining can also expect to pay more for teeth whitening as repeated visits may be necessary to attain their desired results.

Search for a Dentist in Your Area

Find a cosmetic dentist in your area who specializes in teeth whitening. DocShop's online directory can help you locate cosmetic dentistry practices in your area.