If you’re thinking about professional teeth whitening in North Raleigh, you probably want to know if it’s worth it. Will that brighter smile stick around? The simple answer is that professional whitening can make a real difference in how your teeth look, and it will create better and longer-lasting results than at-home methods.
Teeth Whitening in North Raleigh: How Long Can You Expect the Brightness to Last?
How It Works
A whitening treatment involves using either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which work by breaking apart the stain molecules inside the tooth structure. In the office, we can give you higher concentrations of the whitening product, with a protective barrier for your gums and a light to activate the process.
Longevity Factors
How long the brighter shade holds up depends on the person and their habits more than anything else. An in-office professional treatment generally lasts between one and three years, while at-home treatments from us typically last about two years.
Some people see the effect fade sooner than others because they’re constantly exposing their teeth to staining substances. However, even if you carefully avoid all those, the natural aging process still causes the inner dentin layer of our teeth to darken slightly and show through more as the outer enamel wears thin over decades. People with originally yellower teeth or certain types of intrinsic stains may notice the return of color a bit sooner than those who mostly have just surface discoloration.
Tips for Keeping Things Bright
Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily removes plaque and some surface stains before they can set in. Professional dental cleanings every six months clear away hardened tartar and polish the teeth, which helps prevent new discoloration from building up as quickly.
Also, get in the habit of rinsing with water after drinking coffee or wine, and use a straw for dark liquids whenever it’s practical. Cut back on the frequency of eating and drinking staining items if it fits your routine.
FAQ
Will It Make My Teeth Sensitive?
Many patients ask about tooth sensitivity during or after professional whitening, and it is a common side effect. The peroxide can temporarily irritate the nerves inside the teeth or inflame the gums if it contacts them.
Most of the time this is mild and goes away within a few days to a week after treatment ends. If you’ve had gum irritation before using at-home treatments, an in-office treatment will allow us to provide a barrier that protects your gums.
Can Store-Bought Kits Do the Trick?
Professional treatments tend to deliver longer-lasting and more consistent results. The gels used in a dental setting have higher peroxide levels, and the custom trays that we can make for you will fit your mouth precisely, so the gel stays where it should. Our in-office procedures also give immediate feedback and allow for adjustments on the spot.
If you’re ready to explore what professional whitening might achieve for your teeth, contact the office of Rebecca E. Reeves DMD, PA in Raleigh, NC today to set up an appointment.