Professional teeth whitening is a minor cosmetic procedure that can have a major impact on your smile—and your confidence. If your teeth are stained or discolored, teeth whitening will allow you to achieve a beautiful, luminous smile. Unless you’ve undergone the procedure already, though, you probably have a lot of questions about how it works. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject. 

Teeth Whitening FAQ

How white will my smile be after the procedure?

If you undergo professional teeth whitening, the final result will depend on the type and severity of the staining. In general, you can expect your smile to look five to ten shades whiter after the procedure. 

How long does the procedure take?

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in recent years. Nowadays, for example, professional whitening is so efficient that you can get it done during your lunch break. The in-office procedure takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. 

How long will my brighter smile last?

Unfortunately, the results of professional whitening will not last forever. If you take care of your smile, though, and follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions, you can enjoy a whiter, brighter smile for several years. Additionally, some offices provide patients with a take-home maintenance pen to ensure the results last even longer. 

Does whitening harm the enamel?

Professional whitening does not cause any lasting damage to the tooth enamel. Although it’s normal to experience some sensitivity following the procedure, it will go away in a matter of days, and your teeth will be no worse for the wear. 

If you want to get professional teeth whitening, turn to Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI. For more than 30 years, this family-oriented dental practice has been providing oral health care for patients at all stages of life. Their offerings include preventive care, as well as cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures. To learn more about their friendly team, visit their website. To schedule a dentist appointment today, call (608) 784-4063.