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Teeth Whitening at the Dentist: Everything You Need to Know
Do you dream of a radiant smile and white teeth? Professional teeth whitening performed in a dental office is considered the most effective technique.
But what exactly does this procedure involve? How much does it cost? What are its pros and cons? We'll tell you everything in this article.
What Is Teeth Whitening at the Dentist?
Also known as "in-office bleaching," whitening performed by a dentist is based on the application of a whitening gel directly to the teeth. This product generally contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide at a high concentration, which is only legally available to dental professionals.
The whitening agent penetrates the enamel and dentin to break down the pigments responsible for tooth discoloration. You can expect to gain 2 to 8 shades, but the final result will always depend on the initial color of your teeth.
Be aware that the whitening effect is not permanent! To maintain white teeth, the procedure will need to be repeated every 1 to 3 years. Several factors contribute to the yellowing of teeth over time:
- Smoking
- Consumption of staining drinks (coffee, tea, red wine...)
- Poor oral hygiene
- Natural aging
- Taking certain medications
- Genetic predispositions
How Much Does In-Office Teeth Whitening Cost?
The cost of whitening at the dentist varies depending on the practitioner and the geographic location of their office. On average, you should expect to pay between $500 and $1,200 for one or two sessions.
| Type of Whitening | Duration | Result | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitening Kiosk | 20 minutes | 1 to 2 shades | $100 to $200 |
| Dental Office | 1 hour | 2 to 8 shades | $500 to $1,200 |
| At-Home Kit | 30 min/day for 2 weeks | 2 to 5 shades | $50 to $200 |
The Steps of a Teeth Whitening Procedure at the Dentist
An in-office whitening session lasts about 90 minutes and proceeds as follows:
- Clinical Examination: The dentist checks the condition of the teeth and gums and records the baseline shade.
- Cleaning: A deep cleaning is performed for better treatment effectiveness.
- Protection of Soft Tissues: The practitioner applies a protective gel to the gums and places a retractor to keep the mouth open.
- Application of Whitening Gel: The product is applied to the teeth and then activated by a special light for 15 to 60 minutes.
Our Take on Teeth Whitening at the Dentist
If you are looking to achieve durably white teeth safely, whitening performed by a dentist is the most effective method. Under medical supervision, the risks are minimized and the treatment is optimized for the best results.
FAQ About In-Office Teeth Whitening
What are the contraindications for whitening at the dentist?
Professional whitening is not recommended in cases of gum disease, untreated cavities, very sensitive teeth, or significant enamel wear. It is also contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women as a precaution.
How long do the whitening effects last after an in-office treatment?
The results of an in-office whitening gradually fade after 1 to 3 years on average. This duration depends on individual habits (smoking, diet, dental hygiene...). Therefore, the treatment will need to be repeated regularly to maintain white teeth.
Is teeth whitening at the dentist painful?
During the treatment, the patient feels no pain. However, sensitivity of the teeth to cold may appear in the following days and persist for some time. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth and appropriate mouthwashes will help to alleviate this side effect.