FAQs Regarding Teeth Whitening

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a dental procedure that whitens and lightens teeth. A bleaching solution is applied to the teeth, then a light or laser is used to activate the solution. This lightens the shade of the enamel.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

The hydrogen peroxide gel penetrates the tooth surface and whitens teeth by breaking down the protein pellicle, which protects the enamel on the tooth. As the pellicle breaks down, the enamel becomes more porous, which allows the hydrogen peroxide gel to whiten the tooth.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening is an elective procedure and not something that everyone necessarily needs. If you have good oral hygiene habits and have your teeth cleaned every six months, you may still experience some staining. However, if you’re interested in whitening your smile, it’s safe to do so.

There are many over-the-counter whitening kits, and patients love the convenience of whitening their teeth at home. Our dentists can provide you with a professional whitening treatment that achieves your results much more quickly. You can discuss your options with your dentist to decide which one is right for you.

Is Teeth Whitening Painful?

Although you may have heard of teeth sensitivity with teeth whitening, many patients are pleasantly surprised to discover minimal to no sensitivity during a professional teeth whitening procedure. Patients may experience slight, temporary sensitivity the first or second day following treatment. Some patients have reported sensitivity following at-home whitening products.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Most people see results within a few days of whitening, although results differ from person to person. Teeth whitening results usually last about 3 to 4 years before they need to be touched up. Many patients choose to have their teeth whitening treatment done once every year to keep up their results. 

Avoiding food and beverages that contain artificial colors can help retain the white teeth for a longer period of time.

To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry treatments, visit Wedgewood Dental offices at 713 Salem Avenue Suite A, Rolla MO 65401 or 1116 S. Main Street, Salem MO 65560. You can also reach us at (573)368-7325 or (573)729-7701 and schedule an appointment.