How Long Do the Whitening Effects Last?

Whitening is not everlasting. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to lose color in as little as 1 month. Individuals who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.

The level of whiteness will differ from person to person depending on the condition of the teeth, nature of the stain, the type of bleaching system used and from the period of time.

Risks Associated With Teeth Whitening

  The two side effects that happen most often are a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity and mild irritation of the soft tissues of the mouth, mainly the gums. Tooth sensitivity often occurs during early stages of the bleaching treatment. Tissue irritation most frequently results from an ill-fitting mouthpiece tray rather than the tooth-bleaching agent. Both of these conditions typically are temporary and disappear within 1 to 3 days of stopping or completing treatment.

If you do experience sensitivity, you can reduce or eliminate it by:

1. Wearing the tray for a shorter period of time, for example, two 30-minute sessions vs. two 60-minute sessions.
2. Discontinue whitening your teeth for two to three days to allow your teeth to adjust to the whitening process
3. Inquire your dentist or pharmacists about a high fluoride-containing product, which can help remineralize your teeth. Put the fluoride product into the tray and wear for 4 minutes prior to and following the whitening agent.
4. Brush your teeth with toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, as they contain potassium nitrate, which helps ease your teeth's nerve endings.

Tips to Consider When Choosing an Over-the-Counter Whitening Kit

Try to choose a kit that allows some customization of the mouthpiece. Some kits go together with a mouthpiece that can be molded to some degree. These are better than others that come with a standard mouthpiece.

Seek for the opinion of others who may have already tried the kit you are considering. If whenever you experience a prolonged change in the color of your gums or an increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, stop wearing the mouthpiece and see your dentist immediately.