Teeth Whitening In Aurora, IL

Teeth Whitening

Every year, millions of adults in the United States seek cosmetic dental treatments. In fact, research shows that approximately 42% of adults have spent money on cosmetic dental procedures at some point. Industry experts expect the field to reach $32 billion by the year 2026.

One of the most popular cosmetic treatments is teeth whitening because it is the least invasive way to improve the appearance of the teeth. The first step is typically a comprehensive exam and cleaning.

Then, a gel is put on the teeth and a UV light is used to activate the whitening gel. After about 30 minutes or so, the dentist will clean the gel off of the teeth and apply a sealant to protect the results.

City of Lights Dental in Aurora, IL offers several cosmetic dental procedures, including teeth whitening to improve the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence.

How long does teeth whitening last?

The lifespan of teeth whitening depends on the type of whitener you are using, the type of stains you have, your oral care habits, and your lifestyle habits. Whitening treatments reduce stains and, if you practice proper oral hygiene, the results will last longer.

Results from professional, in-office, whitening last for about 1 to 3 years- as long as you have good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing daily as directed, and visiting the dentist every 6 months. If results do start to fade, touch-up treatments can be done.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Overall, when performed by a professional, teeth whitening procedures are safe. Still, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of:

Gum whitening/bleaching: gel might get on the gums, causing them to lose their color for a short time

Damage to enamel or dentin: whiteners with a strong bleaching solution/abrasive may cause grooves and thinning enamel

Gastrointestinal distress: if swallowed, the whitening gel can cause digestion issues

Gum burns/irritation: the gel may get on the gums causing irritation- this is typically short-term

Does teeth whitening work?

Research shows that teeth whitening is an effective way to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. This cosmetic dental treatment works well for both intrinsic and extrinsic tooth stains.

How much does teeth whitening cost?

On average, professional teeth whitening procedures range from around $300 to $1,800+, depending on the type of treatment you choose. There are many OTC, at-home options that are much cheaper, but do not provide the results and may not be as safe as professional options.

Unfortunately, cosmetic dentistry procedures are considered elective, which means they are not covered. However, there are financing options that can help you get the treatments you want to improve your smile. Financing allows you to break the fee up into more manageable payments.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

No, teeth whitening is a painless, non-invasive way to resolve discoloration concerns on teeth. However, in some cases, patients may develop gum and/or tooth sensitivity following the procedure. Typically, this will resolve within a few days.

Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Procedure Today

If you are unhappy with your smile due to tooth discoloration, schedule your consultation today. We can determine the types of stains you have which will help us determine the best tooth whitening option.

In addition to tooth whitening, we offer other options to address concerns regarding discoloration including dental veneers, dental bonding, and dental crowns.

We are located in Aurora, IL on West Galena Boulevard. We are open Tuesday through Friday and every other Saturday. We are available for appointments and dental emergencies. We offer treatment options for your entire family.

Teeth Whitening FAQs

If you have questions about teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures, please let our staff at City of Lights Dental know. We will be happy to provide you with the guidance you need. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions:

How long after teeth whitening can I drink coffee?

Ideally, you should wait at least 72 hours to drink coffee following a tooth whitening procedure. When you do start drinking coffee, it’s best to make sure to follow your cup of coffee with a glass of water and/or brush your teeth.

Is whitening your teeth bad?

As a general rule, tooth whitening procedures are not bad for you- provided they are performed by a licensed dentist. They have the training necessary to reduce the risk of side effects. OTC at-home kits can be dangerous if you do not know what you are doing because you may overuse them or use them improperly.

What can I eat after teeth whitening?

There are certain foods that should be avoided following teeth whitening. However, there are lots of options that you can eat:

Crunchy fruits/veggies: these stimulate saliva product and act as natural toothbrushes, which improves oral health

Leafy greens: these are high in vitamins and minerals that support healthy gums/teeth

Dairy products: these are high in calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the risk of tooth decay

Lean proteins: these provide nutrients that encourage oral health and are gentle on your teeth

Nuts/seeds: these are full of vitamins and minerals, which remineralize teeth following tooth whitening

How long does teeth sensitivity last after whitening ?

Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of tooth whitening. However, it should only last for about 24 to 48 hours. If it lasts longer than this or it is painful, you should contact the dentist as soon as possible.

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing tooth sensitivity, including:

Using a desensitizing gel

Taking OTC pain relievers

Using a sensitive formula or remineralizing formula toothpaste

Is teeth whitening permanent?

No, teeth whitening is not a permanent procedure- it will need to be repeated. Still, with proper care and maintenance, it should last for at least a year. In some cases, results may last as long as 3 years.