How Long Should You Be Whitening Your Teeth

Supposedly, the best things in life are worth the wait, but that’s easier said than done when achieving a whiter smile. We’d all love an Instagram-worthy smile tomorrow, but the reality is that whitening your teeth takes time. How long depends on the whitening method you’re using and your lifestyle. Read on to learn how long teeth whitening takes before you start to see results.

What Affects Teeth Whitening?

First off, how white your smile can get depends on the color of your teeth before whitening. Natural teeth color can vary in appearance from yellow to gray or brown, depending on numerous factors including, but not limited to:

• Oral hygiene and history
• Age
• Illness or injury
• Food and beverage preferences.

The more discolored your teeth are to begin with, the longer it will take to see results, and the level of whitening may not be as dramatic as expected.

Are Certain Teeth Whitening Options Better?

Consult your dentist or dental hygienist before beginning a teeth whitening routine if you’re unsure which option is best for you. Certain types of teeth whitening, such as bleaching, are not recommended for various types of teeth, including those with veneers or teeth that have been unevenly striped or mottled.

How Long Do At-Home Teeth Whitening Products Take to Work?

You can choose from several options to whiten teeth fast at home. The best at-home teeth whitener depends, partly, on how much money and time you’re willing to invest into your whitening routine.

Colgate Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit: 10-Day Professional Whitening Treatment

Teeth whitening bundles like the Colgate Optic White Kit are great options for beginners. They usually contain the basic components needed to whiten teeth, including a whitening device or tray and whitening gel or serum. Colgate Optic White is clinically proven to deliver six shades whiter teeth in 10 minutes a day for 10 days when used as directed.

Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen: Removes Years of Stains in Just 1 Week, When Used as Directed

Try the overnight teeth whitening pen if you’re looking for an easy way to whiten your teeth while you sleep. Apply it before bed and let it work its magic while you sleep. The hydrogen peroxide whitening gel whitens teeth up to two shades in as little as one week when used as directed; that’s years of stains!

Can I Leave Teeth Whitening Gel on Longer Than the Instructions Say?

Even though it’s tempting to do so, never leave whitening products on your teeth longer than directed in the product’s application instructions. Doing so can damage your tooth enamel and aggravate sensitive mouth tissue. You’re going for a brighter smile with teeth whitening, not a painful one! Check out our FAQ page if you’re looking for specific instructions about how long to apply Colgate teeth whitening products.

The good news is that teeth whitening products are effective when used according to directions. Be patient with the process. If you’re still not happy with your results after using an at-home whitening product, consult your dentist for advice.