San Jose Dentist Grant F Shimizu DDS, Inc Articles & Blog

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

The kind of tooth whitening you’re using will determine how long your teeth will continue to whiten. Your lifestyle choices also matter. Treatments for teeth whitening are intended to lessen stains rather than to remove them. At-home items and dental procedures will last longer if you maintain appropriate oral hygiene. Continue reading to discover the outcomes of whitening methods and items to think about. Additionally, we’ll let you know how long they typically endure.

Does Tooth Whitening Have Any Negative Effects?

Teeth and gums may become sensitive due to the active components in tooth whitening agents. Usually, this doesn’t last very long. Long-term use of any bleaching agent containing peroxide or abrasives might be unpleasant for certain people. Additionally, there is a chance for more severe side effects, such as:

  • Gum burns and irritation: Gum burns and irritation can be prevented by thoroughly covering the gums before treatment and using custom-fitted whitening trays. This is more likely to happen when using gel trays at home or in a chair. Gum burns and irritations are often minor and transient when they do happen.
  • Gum whitening: The gums may get bleached and temporarily lose their color.
  • Gastrointestinal irritation or distress: If you ingest a whitening agent, you can get a moderate stomachache or a burning feeling in your throat.
  • Dentin or enamel damage: Uncertain according to a reliable source. Any whitener that involves powerful bleaching agents or abrasives can lead to surface grooves on teeth and weakening enamel.

During or after teeth whitening, some individuals complain of tooth discomfort. Call your dentist if you feel intense sensitivity, burning, or discomfort. In certain cases, the bleaching agent may penetrate a cavity or broken tooth, resulting in excruciating pain and necessitating a trip to the dentist.

Dental Health Advice

In addition to preventing cavities and gingivitis, maintaining clean and flossed teeth will keep teeth at their whitest.

  • At least twice daily, especially after meals, brush your teeth.
  • If you consume foods or beverages that stain your teeth, brush them immediately. If not, wait 30 minutes. If you consume acidic foods or beverages, brush them immediately.
  • After eating, rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum.

To Sum Up

There are several at-home and professional tooth whitening treatments and techniques available. Although at-home whitening remedies like whitening toothpaste, rinses, and pens don’t work very long, they can help extend the results of other, more potent whitening procedures. White strips are the best over-the-counter tooth whitening product you may use without a dentist’s supervision. The best whitening options for a long-lasting result are chairside whitening and at-home gel trays made specifically for your mouth by your dentist.

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