Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that can improve the appearance of your pearly whites, boost your self-confidence, and make you feel more attractive. In recent years, at-home whitening kits and in-office treatments have become increasingly popular.
But how often is too often to whiten your teeth? In this article we’ll answer that and a few other important questions so you can have the bright, white smile you desire without harming your dental health.
Is it OK to whiten your teeth every day?
While it may be tempting to whiten your teeth every day, it is not recommended.
Using whitening products incorrectly, or overusing them, can at best lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
At worst, they can cause permanent damage to the tooth enamel, which can make your teeth appear translucent or gray, rather than white, as well as predispose them to cavities.
How long do you have to wait between teeth whitening?
It’s important to give your teeth a break between whitening sessions.
As a general rule of thumb, you should wait at least six months between treatments, however, those who have sensitive teeth may need to wait even longer.
How often can I whiten my teeth at home?
The frequency at which you can use at-home teeth whitening kits depends on the exact product you are using. Most brands, like Crest White Strips, can be used for 30 minutes each day for no more than 20 consecutive days. In any case, it’s crucial to follow the package instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended duration of use.
How often can I whiten my teeth professionally?
Professional whitening treatments are done in-office and under the supervision of a cosmetic dentist. They offer patients long-lasting results, so you may not need touch-ups for several months after the procedure.
The best way to determine how often you should whiten your teeth is to consult with a dental professional. A cosmetic dentist or dental hygienist can assess your individual needs and provide personalized recommendations based on the type of teeth stains you have, the current state of your dental health, and any previous dental work you may have had.
What is the safest way to whiten teeth?
Whitening strips, whitening toothpaste, and take-home kits can be somewhat effective in reducing the appearance of surface stains caused by dark-colored foods and beverages. However, most of those products contain a low percentage of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are the active ingredients that remove stains from teeth. In other words, they will require multiple applications to see noticeable changes.
At Kootenai Dental Group in Coeur d’Alene, ID, we offer dental patients the safest and most effective way to whiten their teeth. Our in-office whitening procedure consists of custom-made dental trays and a bleaching gel that contains higher concentrations of peroxide than you can find over the counter. This means that you can expect faster and more dramatic results.
The custom trays are also an optimal solution for patients who experience sensitivity because they are perfectly designed to fit over the surface of your teeth so that the gel doesn’t come into contact with your gums.
Whitening is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your lifestyle, dental history, and types of stains (whether they are extrinsic or intrinsic stains) are important factors in determining which approach to take.
Dr.Delwyn Dick, DDS, and Dr. Lamont Murdoch, DDS, will be happy to examine the condition of your teeth, recommend an appropriate whitening solution, and provide guidance on how to achieve the best results.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my teeth not white after whitening?
If your teeth aren’t as white as you expected after whitening, it could be due to several factors, including the effectiveness of the product you used and the type of stains you have.
- Over-the-counter products generally do not produce instant results. This is why they require multiple applications.
- Extrinsic stains are surface-level stains that are easier to remove. Intrinsic stains are usually caused by genetics, certain medications, or tooth trauma and are more challenging to remove.
If your teeth look more yellow after using whitening strips, it could be due to the dehydration of the teeth. Dehydration can cause the dentin, the layer beneath the enamel that gives teeth their color, to become more visible. This is temporary and should improve with time.
Do teeth stain faster after whitening?
Contrary to popular belief, teeth do not actually stain faster after whitening. However, they are likely to get stained if you consume certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, tomato-based sauces, and dark berries.
When you whiten your teeth, the surface stains are removed, and the teeth appear brighter and whiter. As a result, any new stains that occur may be more noticeable.
In order to maintain a whiter smile, we recommend regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing regularly.
To help prevent the stains from returning, avoid tobacco products and any liquids or foods that are dark, acidic, or sugary. Click here for a list of recommended foods that you can eat post-whitening.
Should I brush my teeth after whitening?
It’s recommended to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth to allow the enamel to remineralize. The tooth enamel can be softened by the whitening process, and brushing too soon after can cause damage.
Once the 30 minutes have passed, you can brush your teeth as normal.
If you experience tooth sensitivity after whitening, you can use desensitizing toothpaste to help alleviate any discomfort. Also, avoid hot or cold drinks, and acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits and juices.
How do you rehydrate teeth after whitening?
To rehydrate your teeth, drink plenty of water and use an alcohol-free mouthwash that strengthens and remineralizes teeth.
Also, avoid consuming any staining or acidic foods and drinks for at least 24 hours after the whitening treatment, as this can help prevent further dehydration and sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
Teeth whitening can be a great way to enhance the brightness and attractiveness of your teeth. Nevertheless, it is important to do so safely and under the guidance of a dental specialist.
At Kootenai Dental Group in Coeur d’Alene, ID, we have a team of highly skilled professionals who are committed to assisting you in obtaining the radiant, bright smile you deserve!
Our expertise lies in a range of cosmetic dental procedures, such as dental implants, veneers, and individualized tooth whitening treatments utilizing customized trays for every patient.
To schedule an appointment, please call us at 208-623-7207 today!
