A clean, white smile helps you make better first impressions, which is why teeth whitening treatments are so popular. However, many ask cosmetic dentists how frequently they can whiten without experiencing side effects like sensitivity. Here is a brief guide to how often you should whiten your teeth, and what might happen if you ignore your doctor’s orders. 

Understanding Teeth Whitening Timetables

How Often Should I Whiten My Teeth? 

The frequency of your whitening treatments will depend on the condition of your teeth and the procedure. For example, if teeth are badly stained, a dentist may recommend in-office whitening amplified with UV light, which brightens teeth faster than other treatments. Cosmetic dentists explain patients may only need in-office whitening procedures every year or two to maintain the results, while it may be necessary to repeat at-home treatments every six months or so. 

Instead of focusing on whitening your teeth more frequently, many cosmetic dentists recommend taking measures to protect results. Their advice to patients includes improving your daily oral hygiene routine and avoiding foods and drinks that stain, such as berries, coffee, cola, and tomato sauce. 

Can Whitening Too Frequently Cause Problems?

The American Dental Association® (ADA) indicates whitening is safe and effective when performed under a dentist’s supervision. However, they also explain patients who undergo treatments too frequently may experience side effects. For instance, whitening agents in bleaching gels can loosen fillings, causing severe tooth sensitivity. Whitening too aggressively can also cause the edges of teeth to become mildly translucent, giving them a pinkish hue. 

Make your smile a little brighter today by scheduling an appointment with Joy K. Lunan DDS. In addition to offering ZOOM! Whitening, this experienced Middlebury, CT, cosmetic dentist can also prescribe personalized at-home whitening systems so you can lighten your teeth on a schedule that’s convenient for you. To learn more about how she can help brighten your smile, visit her webpage, or call 203) 598-7920.