You’re not alone if you want to look your very best for an upcoming occasion, such as a reunion, wedding, birthday, or anniversary. But if your teeth appear more yellow or brown than bright white, you might remain tight-lipped rather than smile confidently for all the photographs that will surely be taken.
Your dentist offers professional teeth whitening to help lighten your enamel, but you might not know how soon to get started. Continue reading to learn more about how long it can take to brighten your grin so you know what to expect!
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Whether your dentist offers in-office procedures, customized take-home kits, or both, teeth whitening products generally function the same way. For example, they typically contain bleach, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, that penetrates your enamel to break down stain particles through oxidation, reducing their size and concentration to brighten your smile.
Some dentists offer in-office procedures to help you achieve the intended outcome, while others provide take-home kits with professional-strength gels and custom-fitted applicator trays for reliable results from the comfort of your living room.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take?
Before deciding when to begin whitening your teeth, you must understand how long it usually takes for patients to achieve the desired results. With that said, the anticipated timeline can depend significantly on the type of teeth whitening you undergo.
For instance, in-office procedures involve applying a special ultraviolet light to your teeth after the gel is applied to help speed up the bleaching process. This can potentially brighten your grin by several shades in a single, hour-long appointment. Meanwhile, professional-grade take-home kits often produce changes within two weeks of using the products as directed.
When Should I Start Whitening My Teeth for My Event?
If you want to perfect your smile for an upcoming momentous occasion, it’s only natural to wonder how far in advance you should begin teeth whitening. But the answer can depend on different factors, such as the severity of your discoloration and the type of treatments you choose.
Before proceeding with any cosmetic upgrade, you must consult your dentist to discuss your concerns and goals. Be sure to let them know about your upcoming event so they can take that into consideration when devising your personalized treatment plan. Thankfully, most dentists are happy to work with your individual timeline to help you achieve the desired results.
If you’re wondering how soon to whiten your smile before your upcoming event, your dentist can provide more accurate information based on your unique circumstances!
Meet the Author
Dr. Javier Perez has about 25 years of experience helping people of all ages enhance their lives by improving their smiles. He earned his dental degree at the University of Medicine at Cuba and then moved to the U.S. and graduated with a second dental degree from UCLA in 2011. Today, he offers a complete menu of services, including take-home and in-office teeth whitening solutions, using advanced technology to meet your unique needs conveniently under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (903) 534-8110.