When patients consider a teeth whitening procedure, the first question they want to ask is, “how long does it take to whiten teeth?”
The amount of time it takes to whiten your teeth hinges on the method you use. Most of the time, teeth whitening can be completed within an hour or two. The patient might require additional care in some circumstances.
Let’s dive deeper!
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Teeth?
Understanding that the degree of whitening required depends on the amount of stain on the teeth is crucial when it comes to teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening treatment typically takes three to four weeks.
To ensure that the teeth whitening solution covers every tooth, the dental team must first create the mouth guard using impressions.
The whitening product must be applied consistently over a period of two to four weeks once the treatment has started, typically in the comfort of your own home. The stain amount may affect how much product is applied.
Mostly, these treatment sessions last for roughly 30 minutes to an hour at a time. Visit the dental office for an in-office treatment as an alternative to the whitening trays and solutions made by the dentist. A typical in-office treatment can be finished in one or two visits, and results can be seen in just a few hours.
It usually takes at least a month of nightly use of mouthpieces with over-the-counter and at-home teeth-whitening kits before results are seen.
Additionally, over-the-counter medications use mouthpieces that may only cover some of the teeth or apply the solution to the gums.
Related Reading: Are Teeth Supposed to Be White?
Common Ways to Whiten Your Teeth
- Professional teeth whitening. This method of teeth whitening is the quickest and most effective. Patients leave after this quick procedure with teeth that are 2-3 shades lighter than when they entered. It can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.
- Whitening strips are the most commonly used method and people gravitate towards them. However, these aren’t always the best choice for teeth that are sensitive. They must be worn for 1-2 hours per day for 2-3 weeks if you choose this method, so you must be very dedicated to it.
- Whitening rinses is the method that takes the longest to show results. Spend a few minutes every day using the rinse.
- UV lights paired with gel is all the rage right now. The gel is intended to be applied in conjunction with a blue UV light and is typically peroxide-based. The peroxide is allegedly activated by the UV light, speeding up the bleaching procedure. Results can be seen in 10–14 days if you use this daily.
- Whitening toothpaste contains enzymes that eliminate stains while brushing your teeth. Results can take two to six weeks if you repeat this twice daily.
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How Safe is Teeth Whitening?
Thanks to advancements in technology, teeth whitening has seen incredible improvement through the years.
Today, there is a huge selection of teeth-whitening methods that are both efficient and secure.
However, watch out for inferior over-the-counter teeth whitening products because they may result in serious problems like swelling of the lips and tongue, tooth sensitivity, burning mouth, and so forth.
Will There Be Side Effects from Teeth Whitening Procedures?
Yes, they do have side effects, as they contain various active ingredients that can cause oral problems with prolonged use.
- Gum burns and Irritation
- Gum whitening
- Gastrointestinal Irritation or distress
- Tooth enamel or dentin damage
- Enamel thinning
Even though there are numerous DIY teeth-whitening methods available, it is best to schedule a consultation with a dentist if you want a procedure that will last.
Bottom Line: How Long Does It Take to Whiten Teeth
Nothing beats the joy of finally smiling confidently without hiding your teeth or feeling shy.
If you have discolored teeth or simply want to revamp your look, teeth whitening is a simple yet inexpensive procedure that will give you just that.
Read More: How to Whiten Kids Teeth?
FAQs
Can Yellow Teeth Become White Again?
Yes, there are a variety of ways to assist in tooth whitening once they have become yellow, from changing your toothpaste and mouthwash to scheduling dental cleanings.
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Your Teeth by Brushing?
Brushing twice daily with a whitening toothpaste may produce results in two to six weeks.
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Teeth With Strips?
Within a few days of using the strips, you should notice a difference in the appearance of your teeth, and the effects should last for at least 4 months.
