If you’re bothered by stains or discolored spots on your teeth, you are likely considering teeth whitening as a solution. It’s worth bearing in mind, though, that not all whitening treatments are exactly the same. Some patients may require multiple sessions in order to get the smile that they want. Before you take your first step toward a brighter grin, it’s worth learning about the teeth whitening process and how many sessions you can typically expect.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional whitening typically comes in two forms. The first is an in-office treatment that involves applying whitening gel directly to your teeth; sometimes the gel can be activated by light in order to accelerate the process. The other form of whitening is a personalized take-home kit, which comes with bleaching gel and trays made for your unique smile. You will need to fill the trays with the gel and wear them for a certain amount of time each day until you achieve the desired results.
How Many Teeth Whitening Sessions Will You Need?
If you choose to have in-office whitening performed, you will likely only need one visit a year in order to achieve – and maintain – a bright smile. That said, you might need to have the whitening gel applied to your teeth multiple times during a single visit in order to get rid of particularly stubborn stains.
Meanwhile, at-home whitening can be said to involve multiple “sessions”, as you will need to use the whitening trays on a daily basis for a specified amount of time. Many patients see dazzling results after about 14 days of using their take-home whitening kits.
How Can You Maintain the Results of Teeth Whitening?
Once you’re done with the teeth whitening process, you’ll need to take the right steps to maintain your smile’s newly brightened appearance. You can do this by:
- Staying away from foods and beverages that can cause stains, such as coffee, tomato sauce, blueberries, and red wine.
- Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
- Rinsing your mouth after every meal to get rid of lingering food debris that could contribute to tooth discoloration.
- Visiting your dentist twice a year for annual teeth cleanings.
When it comes to teeth whitening, it should be noted that every patient is different. The best way to know for sure how many whitening sessions you’ll need is to speak to your dentist. Once they have examined your smile, they can give you an idea of what your treatment plan will look like.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol initially practiced dentistry in India, and he ran a successful dental office in Chico for a while before he eventually came to San Ramon. At Oak Ridge Dental, he offers his patients a comprehensive menu of smile-improving services, including teeth whitening for getting rid of stubborn discoloration. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
