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How Long Does It Take to Whiten My Teeth

Dental Arts of Bedford • January 11, 2022

Are you planning to get your teeth professionally whitened? Find out what to expect with this guide to how long it takes to whiten teeth.

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Did you know that over 40.5 million people use teeth whiteners every year? No doubt, teeth whitening can significantly boost your confidence and improve your general appearance.



Are you looking to join the teeth whitening bandwagon? If yes, plan to get your teeth professionally whitened by a dentist in Bedford NH for best results! In this guide, find answers to burning questions like how long it takes to whiten teeth.

How Long Does It Take to Whiten Teeth?

Teeth whitening generally takes anywhere from four weeks to a year to achieve full results. Some factors that determine the length include:


  • The extent of discoloration
  • Pre-existing damage and dental issues
  • Lifestyle habits like smoking tobacco
  • Poor dental care
  • Teeth whitening technique, and so on


To avoid issues, or even worse, damaging your teeth, it’s advisable to consult a professional tooth whitening expert. Despite there being numerous over-the-counter options available in the market, most are rather ineffective.



With the best dentist in Bedford NH, you are assured of a safe teeth whitening procedure that will give you the best possible result within the shortest time.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Your teeth can become discolored due to a range of factors such as smoking, consuming colored food and drinks, certain medication, and poor dental hygiene. Teeth whitening is a distinct bleaching procedure done to brighten and whiten your teeth.



The process involves the use of substances such as Carbamide Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide to break down stubborn stains for a brighter, healthier smile.

How Safe Is Teeth Whitening?

Thanks to advancements in technology, teeth whitening has seen incredible improvement through the years. Today, there’s a wide range of effective and safe teeth whitening techniques to choose from.



Nonetheless, be careful of substandard over-the-counter teeth whitening products as they could cause serious issues like swelling of the lips and tongue, tooth sensitivity, burning mouth, and so on. Be sure to visit the best dentist in Bedford NH for safe and stress-free dental whitening services.

Is Teeth Bleaching For Natural Teeth Only?

Tooth whitening products only work on natural teeth. The active agents in tooth whitening formulas are not effective on bonding material, crowns, bridges, caps, veneers, and so on. However, you can have several dental procedures done. For instance, the dentist can match the color of the porcelain veneers to that of your newly whitened teeth.

Can I Whiten My Teeth At Home?

To save time and money, a good number of people do not mind trying out DIY teeth whitening products. The only problem is that you may never be sure if what you are using is effective or safe. Most at-home teeth whiteners have increased sensitivity as a side effect.



Despite brightening your teeth up by a few shades, DIY teeth whiteners are nowhere near as effective as professional, in-office teeth whiteners.

Does Teeth Whitening Have Side-Effects?

Usually, teeth whitening makes your teeth sensitive to hot or cold drinks. However, the discomfort gradually subsides as time passes. In about 24 to 48 hours, you should feel little to no sensitivity. This is assuming you are having your teeth whitening procedure done by a professional dentist in Bedford NH.

How Long Does a Professional Teeth Whitening Session Take?

On average a single tooth whitening session takes 90 minutes. Adjust the time higher or lower depending on your demands. Bottom line, an expert tooth whitening procedure is simple and fast. In fact, most patients leave with their teeth up to three shades lighter.



Note that it may take three or more sessions to achieve the shade you want. The sessions become shorter the closer you get to your last teeth whitening visit.

Will the Results Be Forever?

Teeth whitening comes with some level of responsibility. If you want to keep your teeth as white as your last session for years to come, you must adopt a proper dental care routine. Teeth discoloration is caused by excess fluoride in water, failing to clean your teeth regularly, and other lifestyle habits like smoking.


Your dentist will be quick to discourage you from drinking carbonated or colored drinks. If you do, you are promptly advised to brush your teeth right after you’re done. You may also swish plain water in your mouth to avoid staining your teeth.



Aim to quit smoking, eat more organic foods, and floss and brush your teeth at least twice daily. Also, visit your dentist in Bedford NH regularly for check-ups.

What Is Follow-Up Care?

One tooth whitening session is not enough. Granted, you will see a significant change in the shade of your teeth after your first visit. But, you won’t achieve full results until you are done with all your sessions.


Once that’s over, then comes follow-up care. Teeth whitening results last for three months to a year. However, with the right care, you can enjoy the results for much longer, even with minimal dentist input.



You can apply your custom-made tray and prescribed gel daily or as directed. Also, honor your regular dental cleaning appointments as scheduled.

Book an Appointment With the Best Dentist In Bedford NH

Nothing beats the joy of finally smiling confidently without hiding your teeth or feeling shy. If you have discolored teeth or simply want to revamp your look, teeth whitening is a simple yet inexpensive procedure that will give you just that.


Above is a comprehensive guide about what to expect when you decide to whiten your teeth. Note that with the right dentist in Bedford NH, you won’t have to dig a hole into your pocket.



At Dental Arts of Bedford, we are equipped with state-of-the-art dental technology and products guaranteeing you the whiter teeth you’ve been yearning for. Contact our office today for affordable, effective teeth whitening services in Bedford, New Hampshire.

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