If you are looking to improve the appearance of your teeth and enjoy a winning smile, then teeth whitening is essential. Teeth whitening is the process of returning your teeth to their original bright colour without damaging your teeth or gums.
If you are considering brightening your teeth, then your first question is likely how long does it take?
Determining how long it will take for professional teeth whitening to whiten your teeth depends on why your teeth are discoloured and the condition of your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening is significantly more effective than at-home solutions. A typical session in the dentist’s office lasts for one or two hours, and follow-up treatments may be required.
The Teeth Whitening Treatment Process
The dentist uses a particular chemical to carry out the teeth whitening. The chemical penetrates the enamel of the tooth and bleaches them from the inside out. An active ingredient is added to brighten the teeth, and this is applied using a tray, which resembles a mouthguard.
The tray needs to fit perfectly, so an imprint of your teeth is made, and we use this to make your unique tray. The precise fit ensures even teeth whitening without harming or irritating your gums.
The teeth whitening substance can be either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals act to deliver oxygen into your teeth’ enamel, which lightens their colour.
An important consideration, and something you should discuss with the dentist, is the colour of existing dental work, such as composite fillings, crowns, dentures, bridges, bonding, and veneers. The process does not affect or lighten the colour of these. They will have been matched to the colour of your teeth at the time of the treatment. This means, depending on whether the dental work is visible, that they may need replacing to match the newfound brightness of your smile.
How Long Your Treatment Will Take
The amount of staining that your teeth have dictates how long your treatment will take. However, excellent results and the perfect smile are achieved in two to four weeks in most circumstances.
After the initial treatment, you continue to apply the teeth whitening solution using your unique tray at home. You will wear the tray for between thirty minutes and an hour. Once you complete the course, as discussed with the dentist, you will have teeth that are six to twelve shades lighter.
There is an alternative teeth whitening process available that does not use a tray (mouthguard). This treatment is entirely administered by the dentist in the office and requires several visits.
To ensure the results are maintained, you should brush your teeth last thing at night and at least once during the day. It helps to cut down on staining or sugary food and drinks and by stopping smoking.
To arrange an appointment with a teeth whitening dentist, please get in touch with us on 01922 414 372.
