Do you ever feel like your once-bright smile has faded—or maybe never quite arrived? Teeth whitening can restore or create the white, radiant smile you’ve been dreaming of. Below, we’ll walk you through your options and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Which Teeth Whitening Option Is Right for You?
Stains and discoloration can result from aging, injuries, and the foods and drinks we consume daily. Fortunately, you have multiple options to bring back a bright smile:
In-Office Professional Whitening
- Time: About an hour
- Safety: Gums are carefully protected during the procedure
- Results: Up to 8 shades whiter in a single visit
Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays
- Time: 1–2 weeks
- Safety: Custom trays help ensure safe and even application
- Results: Up to 8 shades brighter when used as directed
Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits
- Time: 1–2 weeks
- Safety: Generally safe when used according to directions
- Results: Typically up to 3 shades lighter
Understanding How Teeth Whitening Works
Tooth discoloration can be internal or external:
– Internal discoloration is often caused by trauma or aging. Teeth may darken over time or after an injury—even if the tooth is still alive.
– External stains build up from foods and beverages with strong pigments, like coffee, tea, red wine, soda, berries, and tobacco.
What to Expect During Your Whitening Treatment
Before any whitening treatment, we first clean your teeth and evaluate their overall health. Some restorations (like crowns or fillings) won’t whiten, so we’ll identify those in advance. We’ll also determine whether internal whitening is needed for any root-canaled teeth.
The right option for you depends on how quickly you want results and how dramatic you want the change to be. We’ll also discuss maintenance so you know what to expect when it’s time for a touch-up.
Are There Side Effects to Whitening?
All whitening methods can lead to temporary tooth sensitivity. While this is completely normal, we’ll help minimize discomfort by guiding you through the safest, most effective treatment for your smile.
Whiten Your Teeth in in Logan, UT!
At Aspen Dental of Cache Valley, we’re here to help you feel confident in your smile. Give us a call today to learn which whitening option is best for you.
Additional Information
Check out the following articles that we’ve reviewed and know provide credible and helpful information:
- Are You Obsessed with Whiter Teeth? – Prevention
- Tooth Whitening Safety Tips – Dear Doctor
- ADA Safety Statement – American Dental Association
