How long does teeth whitening last? Professional teeth whitening offers quick and long-lasting results. This can be achieved by either professional whitening or by using over-the-counter (OTC) products.

Here are the aspects of both professional and at home whitening treatment

Over The Counter vs. Professional

Although OTC treatments provide a good introduction to the teeth-whitening process, the results are usually minimal, lasting only a few months. Furthermore, many people who choose to have professional teeth-whitening treatments tried over-the-counter products, but were unable to achieve the results they desired.

At Smiles By Shields Dentistry, in Jacksonville, Florida, our products contain a higher concentration of whitening agents than OTC products. These higher concentrations allow our patients to attain optimal, long-lasting results within the shortest timeframe.

Preparing for a Teeth-Whitening Treatment

Since whitening products cannot penetrate plaque, you need to have a dental exam and cleaning done first. Furthermore, if you have a cavity or exposed roots, the whitening agents can aggravate these dental issues, leading to discomfort. These issues must be addressed before your whitening treatment.

At Smiles By Shields Dentistry, an experienced hygienist can clean your teeth before Dr. Tiffany K. Shields performs your examination. Dr. Shields addresses any dental issues you have before scheduling your whitening treatment.

Sinsational Smile Is an In-office Treatment

This is an affordable, fluoride-free, eco-friendly treatment that whitens the teeth from 2 to 5 shades per application.

What To Expect During Your Sinsational Smile Treatment 

Dr. Tiffany Shields applies vitamin E oil to your lips. If your lips are chapped, she will apply another layer of vitamin E halfway through your teeth-whitening procedure.

Dr. Shields gives you a tray that is full of whitening gel. After inserting this tray into your mouth, gently bite into the tray and then relax your jaw. To ensure optimal results, keep the gel in front of your teeth.

Initially, the gel in the tray may feel cold on your teeth. You should expect to experience a tingling sensation and increase in saliva production. This excess saliva is suctioned out through the side of your mouth.

Once your treatment is complete, you will rinse your mouth.

After your treatment, Dr. Shields examines your mouth. If you have areas of sensitivity or your gums look lighter than usual, she may have you rinse your mouth with Rincinol for about 60 seconds.

You will take the mouth tray and a whitening pen home with you.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take?

A Sinsational Smiles treatment session at Smiles By Shields Dentistry takes approximately 20 minutes, and results are usually visible directly following treatment.

Determining Your Candidacy for Professional Whitening Treatments in Jacksonville, Florida

While performing your dental exam, Dr. Shields determines if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening.

Issues that could negatively affect your results include:

• Previous dental work (e.g., a bonded or porcelain tooth).
• Teeth that are naturally gray.
• Overexposure to fluoride.
• Tooth decalcification.
• A tooth with a dark inner layer.  
• Tooth discoloration resulting from exposure to tetracycline during the tooth formation process.
• A tooth fracture.

An individual is a poor candidate for teeth whitening with Sinsational Smile if:

• She is pregnant or breastfeeding.
• The individual is younger than 14.

How Long Does Professional Teeth Whitening Last?

On average, patients can expect their in-office whitening results to last anywhere from 2 to 3 years.

Patients who use professional, custom-designed whitening trays can keep their teeth brighter for years by routinely whitening them using professional products at home.

How Long Do Whitening Strips Last?

The results from teeth-whitening strips become evident a few days after the treatment. These results can last up to 6 months.

After whitening your teeth, there are things you can do to prolong your treatment results.

Prolong Professional Teeth-Whitening Results:

• Brush at least twice a day.
• Floss your teeth every day.
• Avoid red wine, foods that are brightly colored, coffee, tea and soda.
• Give up lifestyle choices that negatively affect your teeth (e.g., smoking).

If you would like your teeth to be at least two shades lighter, professional teeth whitening may be for you. To learn more about your teeth-whitening options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Tiffany K. Shields today by calling (904) 731-0777 or clicking here.