Teeth whitening has fast become one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry in the past few years. Numerous at-home and professional options are available for people who want whiter teeth. One of the first questions people ask about teeth whitening happens to be, “Is teeth whitening permanent?” It’s understandable to want lasting results from whatever you invest time and money into.
When it comes to teeth whitening, it’s important to note that no method is truly permanent. While there are steps you can take to prolong the effects of whitening treatments, it’s likely that you will eventually need touch-ups to maintain your desired appearance. Ensuring the longevity of your whitening results requires some effort, but the rewards are worth it. Call Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD at 410.834.4284 to learn more about our professional teeth whitening services today.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter products are also available but often take longer to work and are less effective than professional treatments. The teeth whitening process under professional supervision involves using a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to penetrate the enamel to reach discolored molecules. Oxygen molecules from the bleaching agents react with the discolored molecules in your teeth, breaking the bonds that hold them together. The result is a brighter, whiter smile that boosts your confidence and leaves a fantastic first impression.
Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?
If you have been asking yourself, “Is teeth whitening permanent?” The answer is that no teeth whitening option is permanent. That remains true whether for both at-home and professional teeth whitening. Dental veneers do not last forever, although you can expect to get at least ten years out of them. However, veneers are not an option for tackling the entire mouth at once. They work better as fixes for individual teeth that are discolored or stained.
The duration of teeth whitening varies depending on the method chosen. When comparing at-home and professional whitening, the results are clear. Professional services yield faster and longer-lasting effects. However, longevity alone should not be the sole factor in determining whether to opt for at-home or professional whitening. Consider the costs and your long-term plan as well.
Regardless of your chosen approach, there are a few things you can do to extend the impact:
- Brushing twice per day
- Flossing regularly
- Use whitening toothpaste recommended by your dentist
- Attend regular dental visits
- Avoid foods and beverages that stain teeth, such as coffee and red wine
If you have any questions or concerns about teeth whitening, be sure to talk to a dentist. We can help you determine if teeth whitening suits you and, if so, what method will work best.
Types of Teeth Whitening Options
Before deciding on a teeth whitening method, it’s important to understand the different options available. Here are some of the most common choices:
In-Office Teeth Whitening
TIn-office teeth whitening is performed at a dentist’s office. It involves bleaching the enamel to create a whiter appearance. The process is stronger and more effective, providing quick and long-lasting results. While it is relatively inexpensive, it is not typically covered by insurance. You can expect to pay for these services out of pocket.
At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Kits
At-home teeth whitening kits are similar to those used by professionals. You can purchase these over-the-counter, though you may have to get them through your dentist in some cases. A customized mouthguard is provided with the kit that you fill with a bleaching gel. The amount of time it takes for this option to work depends on the strength of the gel and how long you wear your mouthguard each day.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are not a form of teeth whitening, strictly speaking. However, they do play a role in helping some individuals achieve whiter teeth. A thin porcelain face is applied to the front of your teeth to create a bright smile. Veneers last up to ten years and can be used on a small group of teeth or your entire mouth.
Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening Services
Professional teeth whitening services offer a multitude of benefits that extend beyond merely attaining a bright smile. Here are some significant advantages of seeking professional teeth whitening:
- Expert supervision – Dentists have the professional expertise to conduct the procedure safely, ensuring that your gums and the rest of your mouth are protected during the process.
- Personalized treatment – A professional can customize your teeth whitening treatment to match your specific needs and desires, providing you with the exact level of whiteness that you’re seeking.
- Immediate results – Unlike at-home kits that take weeks to see significant changes, professional teeth whitening often results in a noticeably whiter smile after just a single session.
- Reduced risk of sensitivity – Professionals use advanced techniques and materials to minimize tooth and gum sensitivity, which is a common side effect of teeth whitening.
- Long-lasting results – Professional teeth whitening tends to last longer than at-home treatments, especially if you maintain good oral hygiene post-treatment.
So, if you’re asking, “Is teeth whitening permanent?” remember that while no method is completely permanent, professional teeth whitening can offer longer-lasting results along with numerous other benefits. Contact Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, to learn more about our teeth whitening services.
Call Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD to Schedule Your Professional Teeth Whitening Services Today
Professional teeth whitening is one of the best and most affordable ways to improve your smile. Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD offers in-office and take-home teeth whitening options to help you get the brighter, whiter smile you’ve always wanted.
In-office teeth whitening is the quickest way to achieve dramatic results. We use a potent whitening gel that is activated by a special light. The process takes about an hour, and you will leave our office with a smile several shades brighter. Our experienced professionals will work with you to find the best whitening solution for your needs and preferences. Call us today at 410.834.4284 to make an appointment, or use our contact form for any questions or concerns for our team.
