How Long Does It Take to See Results from Teeth Whitening?
There are two types of whitening. One is the whitening process applied with laser in the clinic, which we call office type. The results of this type of whitening process can be obtained directly in the same session. The whitening rate can be seen directly at the end of the first session. It is usually applied in 3 sessions of 15 minutes each. If necessary, a repeat session can be done on a separate day.
The second type is home whitening. In home teeth whitening application, a personalized teeth whitening plate is prepared with digital measurements taken from the patients' lower and upper jaws.
The doctor selects the appropriate teeth whitening gel for the patient and adjusts the dosage. The patient puts the given gel into this plate prepared for him/her and applies it to his/her teeth for 4-6 hours a day. This process is usually applied at night because it is more practical. Teeth whitening application continues for 6-8 days depending on the degree of discoloration in the teeth. Visible whitening results can be obtained at the end of this 6-8 day process.
Teeth whitening treatments generally fall into two categories:
1. In-Office Whitening (Laser Whitening):
This method, often called office whitening, uses lasers and is applied directly in the clinic. The results are immediate, and noticeable whitening can be observed after one session. Typically, the treatment consists of three 15-minute sessions during a single appointment. An additional session can be scheduled on a separate day to enhance the results.
2. At-Home Whitening:
A personalized whitening tray is made using digital impressions of the patient's upper and lower jaws for at-home whitening. A teeth-whitening gel, selected and dosed by the doctor, is then applied to the patient's tray for 4-6 hours daily. This treatment is often done at night for convenience. The process lasts 6-8 days, depending on the severity of tooth discolouration, with visible whitening results by the end of this period.
How to Ensure the Longevity of Results After Teeth Whitening?
After both application methods, in order for the whitening to last longer, foods and drinks containing food coloring should be avoided for the first 3-4 days. Beverages such as cola, cherry juice, tea, and coffee should be avoided. Smoking should be reduced. Teeth should be brushed regularly at least twice a day. If possible, dental hygiene should be supported with mouthwash. Although it varies from person to person, tooth sensitivity may be felt for a while after the whitening process. Extreme cold or hot weather should be avoided for the first few days.
It's essential to follow these guidelines in the first few days after the procedure to keep the whitened smile for longer:
- Avoid foods and drinks with potent colouring agents, such as cola, cherry juice, tea, and coffee, for at least 3-4 days.
- Smoking should be reduced, as it can stain teeth quickly.
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily and use mouthwash to support oral hygiene.
- Tooth sensitivity, common after whitening, may last a few days. Avoid consuming extremely hot or cold foods and beverages during this period to minimise discomfort.
Tips for Speeding Up Teeth Whitening Results
For your teeth to stay white for as long as possible you should stay away from foods can stain your teeth especially in the first 2-3 days and follow white diet. Like yoghurt, milk, cheese, rice etc.
To optimize and prolong the effects of teeth whitening:
- Follow a "white diet" for the first 2-3 days post-treatment, consisting of foods like yoghurt, milk, cheese, rice, and other non-staining items.
- Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages immediately after the procedure for better, longer-lasting results.
Related Treatments
Teeth Whitening
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