Post Teeth Whitening Expectations
Have you ever purchased a tooth-whitening product only to find out it did not make your teeth any whiter? It is possible the product is not as effective as others however the possibility exist that it did work, but your expectations were unrealistic.
Unrealistic personal expectations post teeth whitening along with disregard to follow direction are the main reasons for less than satisfactory tooth whitening results. Given that someone is following the directions, they will get results at some level. Almost anyone with healthy permanent teeth is a candidate of tooth whitening; however consulting with the dentist first is always encouraged. Understand that the maximum shade of white varies per person. Final results reflect the individual’s natural tooth color.
No two teeth are naturally colored the same. Some are fortunate to have naturally bright white teeth while others have a naturally off-white or even yellowish tone.
Teeth whitening will NOT alter the natural color of the tooth, it will however remove all stains and restore the tooth to its natural color when used properly.
The duration and frequency of applications required depend on how stubborn the stain is, how long the stain has been there, and the type of stain. The only way to fully remove all stains is either having it done in office or using custom fitted teeth whitening trays with a carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide based bleaching agent.
Whitening products are designed to release a chemical into tooth enamel and set off a reaction. This reaction allows the chemical to bleach the tooth during the process of oxygenation and diffusion. The oxygenation process causes breakdown of the stain and removal of the debris via diffusion. This process starts on the surface of the tooth and cycles deeper into the tooth tissue. Result of action reflects concentration and time. The longer the stain has been there, the deeper in the tissue the whitening has to diffuse.
A change in two or three shades can make a difference in just about any one’s smile. On average, people typically see a difference of two to seven shades. If you are unhappy with whitening results, did you follow the directions? Are you allowing the tooth to rehydrate before re-staining it? Darkening or relapse of the tooth shade is expected after whitening. Relapse of shade occurs almost immediately as the freshly whitened dehydrated tooth rehydrates. Repetitive prolonged exposure of the chemical is the only way to achieve optimal results.
Whitening is a chemistry proven to work. Just like anything else, if the directions are not followed, the product cannot be expected to produce results.
The most efficient and cost effective whitening method includes custom fitted whitening trays which are designed to keep the oxygen from escaping, increasing exposure time to the bleaching agent. Due to the chemistry it is impossible for this product not to work. These trays can be worn any time of the day as they are barely visible and do not impair speech!
Erin Stelbrink
Erin Stelbrink is a Registered Dental Hygienist with 11+ years of experience as a licensed hygienist and oral health care professional. She holds a passion for researching and acquiring awareness of the latest technologies and methods for providing valuable health care service and clinical treatment. Have more questions? Email Erin at [emailprotected]
FAQs
Are you allowing the tooth to rehydrate before re-staining it? Darkening or relapse of the tooth shade is expected after whitening. Relapse of shade occurs almost immediately as the freshly whitened dehydrated tooth rehydrates. Repetitive prolonged exposure of the chemical is the only way to achieve optimal results.
Why do my teeth look dull after whitening? ›
If teeth are overexposed to the hydrogen peroxide agent in whitening gel, the outer layers of enamel may begin to wear away, exposing the dentin and soft inner tissues. This results in lasting sensitivity and discoloration, as dentin is a naturally darker color than enamel.
Why are my teeth not responding to whitening? ›
If teeth whitening does not work for you, it might be because of the product you are using, the type of tooth stains or spots, or strength of the bleaching gel.
Why are my teeth patchy white after whitening? ›
Enamel is the outermost layer of teeth that is hard and protects them from decay and wear. When enamel loses minerals, it becomes weakened and more susceptible to damage and staining. Hence, white spots on teeth after whitening can occur due to decalcification.
Why are my teeth not getting whiter? ›
Your Teeth Aren't Clean
You may not see it, but your teeth may have a dirty biofilm or layer of plaque buildup that is preventing the whitening agents from targeting your tooth stains. Consider teeth whitening after your next routine dental cleaning.
Why are my teeth not white enough after whitening? ›
Darkening or relapse of the tooth shade is expected after whitening. Relapse of shade occurs almost immediately as the freshly whitened dehydrated tooth rehydrates. Repetitive prolonged exposure of the chemical is the only way to achieve optimal results.
Why are my teeth whitening unevenly? ›
The center of your tooth has more enamel than the outside, so it takes longer to show results. Some teeth may appear to be whiter than others because each tooth responds differently to bleaching. The composition and structure of teeth affect how they react to bleaching.
Does teeth whitening sometimes not work? ›
Some home kits don't contain enough whitening product to be effective. Also, if a dental professional isn't doing the whitening, the mouthguard provided may not fit properly so some of the bleaching gel may leak out onto your gums and into your mouth, causing blistering and sensitivity.
Why are my teeth not white after bleaching? ›
So, why do teeth not stay white after whitening? Well, there are a few reasons: What You Eat and Drink: Things like coffee, tea, and stuff with dark colors can stain your teeth. Smoking and Chewing Tobacco: Yeah, these can make your teeth go yellow too.
Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening? ›
Though teeth whitening is a noninvasive dental procedure, at-home kits, even when used by the average healthy patient, can come with risks and side effects. Tooth sensitivity, adverse reactions to dubious ingredients, and a poorly done or inconsistent job of teeth whitening can result.
Teeth should appear whiter in about 10-14 days if used as directed. Using a dentist-recommended whitening toothpaste can work to brighten your smile, but the results may be less noticeable and it can take some time – usually about two to six weeks – if used twice a day. However, this is the most affordable option.
Why do my teeth still look yellow after whitening? ›
Teeth can become temporarily dehydrated after using whitening strips. Your teeth may appear more yellow as a result of this dehydration because the enamel may become dry and lack moisture. Dehydrated enamel sometimes has a transparent appearance that makes the naturally yellowish dentin underneath visible.
How do you fix patchy white teeth? ›
Treatments
- Enamel microabrasion. Some people may be able to have microabrasion done to treat their white spots. ...
- Teeth whitening or bleaching. Whitening or bleaching teeth can help to reduce the appearance of white spots and other stains. ...
- Dental veneer. ...
- Topical fluoride. ...
- Composite resin.
For your benefit, we've provided you with seven different ways to naturally whiten your teeth.
- Eat Strawberries. ...
- Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
- Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
- Apply Coconut Oil. ...
- Brush Your Tongue. ...
- Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.
You won't be able to whiten either porcelain crowns or most commonly used dental bonding materials. And, if you're suffering from gum disease, teeth whitening treatments will be uncomfortable, as well as possibly ineffective.
Why is brushing my teeth not whitening? ›
Tooth Brushing Isn't Meant to Whiten Teeth
Brushing twice a day (or more if recommended by a dentist) is essential, as it removes plaque and prevents cavities. The bristle action of a toothbrush won't whiten teeth, though, and even whitening toothpastes can only have a limited effect on the surface of teeth.
How do you restore enamel after whitening teeth? ›
Your dentist may recommend a post-whitening fluoride treatment, especially if you have sensitive teeth. Fluoride works to restore minerals onto the tooth's surfaces after dental procedures like tooth whitening. This treatment helps with preventing future re-staining and long-term tooth sensitivity.
Why do my teeth look grey after whitening? ›
Why Did Your Tooth Turn Gray After Whitening It? There are several things to consider: It may be that your tooth was damaged before you applied the whitening gel to it, and it became irritated afterward. The problem might stem from the whitening gel.
Can whitening cause translucent teeth? ›
Therefore, if the enamel wears away, this makes the edges are translucent. Few people believe that when you put teeth whitening strips or trays in your mouth for a long time than required, it can lead to the erosion of your tooth enamel, and hence, your teeth appear translucent.
How long does it take for teeth to rehydrate after whitening? ›
Rehydrating Teeth After Whitening
After your procedure, your teeth will naturally rehydrate themselves in two to seven days. However, there are things you can do to help your teeth during this time. Drink plenty of water – water naturally hydrates every part of your body, including your teeth.
