FAQ

Q: Are there any side effects from teeth whitening?

A: In some cases, patients have experienced uncomfortable short-term side effects when having teeth bleached as Hydrogen peroxide can increase temperature sensitivity in the teeth, particularly at higher concentrations. Sensodyne toothpaste can remedy this and can be found at your local pharmacy.

Q: How much does teeth whitening cost?

A: While dentist-prescribed night guards are somewhat more uniform than over-the-counter versions, the cost is higher, between $250 and $600. Mouth tray, paint-on and strip products found at the drugstore for between $10 and $50 have peroxide too, but far less. In finding a whitening toothpaste, the important thing is to study the product's ingredients and look at color change; harsher pastes rely on surface abrasion rather than changing the color of your teeth. The highest concentration of peroxide bleach and the most expensive (between $600 to $2000) is laser whitening.

Q: Are there other ways to whitening my teeth, besides laser, in-office, or at home solutions?

A: For those who seek a drastic method of teeth whitening, dentists can provide bonding, a composite resin molded onto stained and misshaped teeth, or porcelain veneers, facings than whiten as well as lengthen teeth. These procedures, however, are costly, from a few hundred to nearly a thousand per tooth.

Q: Should I stay away from certain foods after I whiten my teeth?

A: It wise to check with your dentist about foods to stay away from after whitening your teeth. Usually, it is best to stay away from coffee, tea, cigarettes, red wine, and certain curries. Keeping these substances to a minimal will keep your teeth whitening fresh for up to a year (depending on the whitening procedure and degree of your stains).

Q: Is it safe to whiten my teeth at home?

A: There are many safe and effective ways to whiten your teeth at home. It is best to check with your dentist about the best at home teeth whitening solutions. Check your local pharmacy for whitening strips and gels, which are usually worn overnight. Results can be seen in as little as three days! You could also try whitening toothpaste and floss.

Q: How do I know if teeth whitening is for me?

A: Teeth whitening isn't for everyone. Check with a dentist in %cityOrState% to see if teeth whitening is for you! Your dentist will decide which teeth whitening solution is best for you.

Q: How light can my teeth get?

A: Teeth whitening varies with everyone. Teeth can sometimes become up to six shades lighter! This will depend on the teeth whitening solution you decide to use and to the degree of your stain. Teeth whitening doesn't last forever. The longer you stay away from foods that stain your teeth, the longer your whitening will last!

Q: I am a smoker. Will teeth whitening work on me?

A: Teeth whitening may work on you, but it may not last very long. You may have to frequently whiten your teeth if you are a heavy smoker. Check with a dentist in %cityOrState% for the best teeth whitening solution for you!