The number of sessions one may require to whiten their teeth depends on the type of teeth whitening service you choose and how stained your teeth are.
With professional teeth whitening in Vaughan, for example, you’d typically see great results within 1-2 visits. Whereas if you choose to use whitening strips at home, you could be waiting several days or several weeks to see a result.
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Teeth Professionally?
Professional teeth whitening done by a dentist is the fastest and most effective way to whiten your teeth.
| Treatment Type | Number of Sessions | Time per Session | Results Seen |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-office (Zoom, laser) | 1–2 sessions | 45–90 minutes | Instantly or the next day |
| Take-home trays (from the dentist) | 5–14 days | 30–60 minutes/day | After 1 week |
Typically, when you visit a dentist for whitening, the whitening products used are stronger and effective than whitening products you buy at the store, which is why many choose a dentist to see quicker results.
How Long Does It Take Teeth Whitening Strips To Work?
Whitening strips are thin strips that you place on your teeth that you buy at the store, but they are not as strong as whitening done by a dentist. You need to use these strips daily for approximately 2 weeks, and you will start to see results after about 5-7 days of use.
| Product | How Often to Use | When You’ll See Results |
|---|---|---|
| Whitening strips | Daily for 10–14 days | After 5–7 days |
| Whitening toothpaste | Daily use | After 2–4 weeks |
| Whitening pens | Daily use | Minor results in 1 week |
Whitening strips are sufficient for small stains, or if you want to “freshen” up your teeth, but if you have more significant stains with yellow or dark teeth, whitening strips may not be as effective.
What Factors Change How Many Sessions You Might Need?
Here are the factors that will make a difference in the time it takes to whiten your teeth:
- Amount of staining on your teeth – patients with darker teeth will take more sessions to whiten.
- How you are getting your teeth whitened – a dentist will whiten your teeth the fastest, followed by strips, and then other methods may take longer.
- Your daily habits – coffee, pop and smoking can stain your teeth.
- Your expectations for your smile – some people want a smile that is slightly whiter, others want their smile super bright.
How Long Do Whitened Teeth Stay White?
Depending on how you get your teeth whitened, it can stay white for anywhere from six months to two years after a professional whitening. With strips, it may only last a few weeks to months.
So, how do you keep your teeth white longer?
- Brush and floss every day
- Do not drink too much coffee, tea or red wine
- Quit smoking (if you smoke)
- Use a straw when drinking dark drinks
- Get some touch-ups once or twice a year.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Teeth Whitening is safe, as dentists try to protect your teeth and gums from effective but safe products.
You may feel some sensitivity in your teeth, but this will usually go away after a day or two.
But be careful if you are using kits from your grocery store; you do not want to use them too often, as that could damage your enamel.
Can Anyone Whiten their teeth?
Most people can! But some people may not be candidates for whitening, such as:
- People with crowns or fillings on the front of their teeth (these will not bleach)
- People with gum problems and/or very sensitive teeth
- People with deep stains from medication
Your dentist will be able to examine your teeth and recommend an appropriate teeth whitening plan suitable for you.
For a Brighter Smile, Call the Dentist in Vaughan Right Now!
You often will not need to have a number of appointments to get a bright and white smile. You can usually attain a great smile regularly after one or two visits. If you want to use at-home whitening kits, it may take a little longer, but you can also see results.
At Vellore Woods Dentistry, we help patients safely whiten their teeth to achieve their desired smile. Whether you need an in-office rapid treatment or a custom-made at-home treatment from a dentist, we can help!
If you require teeth whitening and are looking for a dentist near you, come see us for a dazzling smile!