There’s a lot of misinformation about teeth whitening. From DIY home remedies to store-bought products and professional treatments — there is a lot of information you need to know before you buy.
So, if you want a beautiful, impactful smile without wasting your money — here are the top teeth whitening FAQs that will set the record straight.
Is teeth whitening bad for my enamel?
There is no permanent damage caused to the enamel or any other tooth structures by teeth whitening.
Does whitening my teeth cause lasting tooth sensitivity?
Sensitivity from tooth whitening is always transient. That means if there is any sensitivity caused by the whitening, it goes away within one to two days after the treatment, and the patient returns to the state of sensitivity he or she had prior to starting the whitening process.
How long will my teeth stay white?
Typically you can expect whitening to last from six months to two years, although some studies report results lasting up to 10 years. Avoiding red wine, coffee, and smoking—all of which can cause staining—helps preserve the results.
Is teeth bleaching safe?
Yes, many studies have proven that tooth whitening is safe. You can protect your tooth enamel by using calcium sulfate and fluoride.
Does teeth whitening affect other dental procedures like crowns, fillings, and veneers?
Tooth whitening has little or no effect on restorative materials such as porcelain (crowns) but it may temporarily reduce the bond strength between enamel and composite restorations. This is why it’s a good idea to check with your dental professional before beginning any course of tooth whitening.
Do teeth whitening toothpastes work?
Whitening toothpastes typically only clean surface stains and don’t actually change the color of the teeth. There may be some visible results but the teeth aren’t actually being whitened.
Why should I get my teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening has become extremely popular for people with healthy teeth who are looking to erase the yellow stains. A professional teeth whitening procedure is noticeably more effective than store bought kits.
At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES we offer a variety of procedures to improve your smile for all of your summertime activities. Unlike over-the-counter whitening strips, our SOCAL dental practice uses a stronger bleach to whiten your teeth and also avoids the bleaching/damaging of skin and clothes, a common mistake when using whiteners at home.
If you’re interested in a summertime smile makeover, CONTACT US today for a full evaluation and exam.
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.