The initial and long term results of teeth whitening can vary depending on the type of treatment you choose. There are a host of products that can whiten your smile, and while results with some of them can be immediate, others may take several treatments before you get the results you are looking for.
Most whitening treatments are designed to remove stains and debris on the surface of the tooth. Staining of tooth enamel comes from many sources including age, certain medications, foods and beverages, such as coffee, wine and colas. Whitening products do not work on crowns, veneers and fillings.
Initial Results
Dental office whitening (dental bleaching) usually provides immediate results because a stronger formula is applied and typically stays on the teeth for 15-20 minutes. Lower concentrations of peroxide can stay on longer, and with in-home kits purchased at the dental office, some can be left on overnight. Over the counter whitening kits generally just whiten the front teeth because the accompanying mouthpiece does not fit the entire mouth. Results with teeth whitening treatments will vary from person to person. Some get obviously whiter teeth immediately, while users may have to wait a couple of weeks with repeated treatments before it is noticeable. Keep in mind that not all stains respond to bleaching.
Long-Term Results
It's possible that long term use of bleaching agents may harm tooth enamel. Those that contain high amounts of citric acid as the bleaching agent are especially harmful. Most home-use treatments have short term whitening effects and will require repeated use. Dental office whitening is immediate and long-lasting. You can keep your brilliant smile with monthly touch-ups.
