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 do my teeth whiten unevenly? ›
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. For example, teeth that have less calcium will whiten much faster.
How come my teeth aren't getting whiter? ›
The natural color of teeth can vary due to various factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle habits. Some individuals naturally have teeth that are darker or have a yellowish tint. These teeth may have a denser enamel layer or more pigmented dentin, making them more resistant to whitening treatments.
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 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.
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.
How do you whiten teeth that won't whiten? ›
Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
- Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating 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.
White lines or spots that are not caused by dehydration do happen, and to get rid of them, you'll need to visit a cosmetic dentist. A consultation appointment is necessary but typical treatment options include dental bonding and dental veneers.
Why am I not seeing results from whitening strips? ›
Teeth Are Not Clean
The chemicals break down the stain molecules that cause teeth to darken. Plaque buildup can block these whitening chemicals from reaching the stained teeth. Schedule a dental cleaning appointment first before using teeth whitening strips. This can prepare your teeth well for the whitening process.
Why is only half my tooth whitening? ›
It is advisable to see your dentist, who will check what the issue may be. Usually, the first thing to try is continuing with the whitening. Usually, you just need an extra syringe or two of gel to achieve a good result. The other check the dentist will make at this stage is the fit of your whitening trays.
Do some teeth not respond to whitening? ›
The fact is, not all teeth respond to whitening. Furthermore, it is important to understand what whitening products you use can really make all the difference.
Are there teeth that can't be whitened? ›
Teeth that have yellowed with age
As we age, the enamel becomes thinner due to wear and tear, revealing the underlying layer of tooth structure called dentin. Dentin is naturally yellowish and cannot be lightened with teeth whitening products.
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.
How do you restore enamel after whitening teeth? ›
Fluoride treatments.
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.
