Commonly Asked Questions About Whitening Teeth

How fast will my teeth whiten?

Each person is different. Darker teeth take longer, and frequent use of whitening gel speeds up the process.

Will crowns, bonding, or fillings whiten too?

No. Whitening gel only works on natural teeth.

Should I continue using whitening gel if my teeth aren’t as white as I want?

No. Whitening gel removes aging stains, but teeth will reach a limit. One to two kits are typically enough.

How long do bleached teeth stay white?

Results can last for years, but occasional touch-ups may be needed.

When will I see a change?

For aging stains: 1-3 days. Other stains: 7-10 days. Whitening continues slowly after this.

Do teeth whiten evenly?

Generally, yes. Some patients may see temporary white spots, which disappear shortly after removing whitening trays.

Should I get my teeth cleaned first?

If you haven’t had a cleaning in six months, you should get one to achieve the best whitening results.

Will whitening hurt my teeth?

No. Studies show no adverse effects when using professional products.

Do over-the-counter products work?

Yes, but they are less effective and don’t last as long as professional whitening treatments.

What if I experience side effects?

Stop treatment and contact your dentist for instructions.

Is whitening safe?

Yes. The dental profession has used this method since 1985 with no harmful effects.

How does whitening work?

It uses peroxide, a proven whitening agent.

Can children use it?

Not recommended for children under 12, as their tooth pulp is closer to the surface.

Is whitening covered by insurance?

Usually not, as it’s considered cosmetic.

Can I buy a whitening kit and brush it on?

We don’t recommend this method as it’s less effective and takes much longer.

Can I buy professional whitening products at a pharmacy?

No. The concentration used by dentists is not available over the counter.