How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take?

Teeth whitening (in-office or by a dentist) usually takes 30 to 90 minutes. Furthermore, approximately one to three appointments (three to four weeks) are required to whiten your teeth completely. 

Our dentists in Plano perform professional teeth whitening and assist you in achieving your desired aesthetics, depending on the severity of stains on your teeth.

What does an in-office teeth-whitening procedure involve?

Here’s an overview of what you can expect during a professional teeth-whitening procedure:

1. Dental Examination:

Before undergoing any teeth-whitening procedure, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums (which may include an X-ray) to ensure they are healthy and suitable for the treatment. 

2. Pre-treatment Cleaning:

Your dentist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque, tartar, or debris that may interfere with the whitening process.

3. Shade Matching:

The dentist may use a shade guide to determine your teeth’s current color and establish a baseline for comparison after treatment.

4. Protection for Soft Tissues:

We will apply a barrier or gel to protect your gums, lips, and other soft tissues in your mouth. It prevents the whitening agent from contacting these areas.

5. Application of the Whitening Agent:

The dentist will apply a professional-grade whitening agent to your teeth. The whitening agent usually incorporates carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which help break down stains and discoloration.

6. Activation of the Whitening Agent:

Depending on the type of whitening system, you may use a special light or laser to activate the whitening agent and enhance its effectiveness. Alternatively, some systems utilize custom-fit whitening trays that you can wear for a specific duration.

7. Multiple Sessions:

To achieve the desired results, it may be necessary to reapply and activate the whitening agent several times during the same appointment. Each session typically lasts around 15–20 minutes.

8. Post-treatment Evaluation:

The dentist will assess the results after achieving the desired level of whitening. They may compare the current shade of your teeth with the baseline shade recorded earlier.

At the end, your dentist will provide you with post-treatment care instructions. It may include avoiding certain foods and beverages that can stain the teeth, maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

What causes teeth to become discolored or stained?

There are various reasons why teeth can become discolored or stained. Some common causes are:

• You should avoid consuming stain-causing foods and drinks like coffee, tea, or red wine.
• Smoking or using tobacco products.
• Inadequate brushing and flossing lead to poor dental hygiene.
• Teeth naturally darken with age.
• Some drugs, like antibiotics or antihistamines, contain tetracycline.
• Excessive fluoride intake during tooth development.
• There could be dental trauma or damage to the teeth.
• Genetic factors or certain medical conditions.
• Acidic foods and beverages cause enamel erosion.

These factors can significantly affect the appearance of teeth. Expert teeth whitening by professionals in a clinic may help whiten your teeth up to some extent, irrespective of the causes. 

Contact us today to brighten and whiten your smile.

Say goodbye to stained teeth and hello to a brighter, more confident smile. Get professional teeth whitening at Pinnacle Dental Plano.

Our expert dentist is here to help you achieve your desired aesthetics. Call us today to get a smile that radiates beauty and confidence.