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Many people desire brighter, whiter teeth, whether it’s for a special event like a wedding or to boost their self-confidence on a daily basis. If you’re considering teeth whitening in Pennsylvania, you probably have some questions about the process and what to expect. Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about getting your teeth whitened in PA.

What are the most popular teeth whitening options in PA?

The most common teeth whitening options in Pennsylvania are:

• In-office whitening: This is performed by your dentist, who will apply a high-concentration peroxide gel to your teeth and use a special light to accelerate the whitening. In-office whitening provides the fastest and most dramatic results in one visit.
• At-home whitening kits: These involve wearing custom-made whitening trays filled with a lower-concentration peroxide gel for a set amount of time each day over 1-2 weeks. They produce good results gradually over time.
• Over-the-counter whitening strips: Whitening strips coated with hydrogen peroxide can be applied to teeth for 30 minutes or so daily. They are the most affordable option but produce the least dramatic color change.

How long do teeth whitening results last?

Results vary depending on the whitening method. In-office whitening can last 1-3 years. At-home kits and whitening strips lighten teeth 3-6 months on average before touch-up treatments become necessary. Proper dental hygiene and avoiding staining foods/drinks helps prolong results.

Does insurance cover teeth whitening in PA?

Unfortunately, most dental insurance plans do not cover teeth whitening because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, some plans may provide a discounted rate with in-network dentists. Many dental offices also offer their own whitening discounts if insurance isn’t covering it.

Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?

The main side effects are tooth and gum sensitivity, which affects most people temporarily during the first 24-48 hours after whitening. Using products with desensitizing ingredients can help. Avoiding whitening if you have existing sensitivity, receding gums, or other oral issues is best. More serious side effects like nerve damage are very rare.

Is whitening safe for teeth?

When administered properly and not overused, hydrogen peroxide-based whitening is generally safe for teeth. Most dentists recommend getting touch-ups just 1-2 times per year to avoid over-exposure. Whitening is not recommended for those under 16 years old. Always consult your dentist if you have any concerns.

What about “natural” teeth whitening methods?

Some alternative teeth whitening methods include coconut oil pulling, baking soda/lemon mixes, activated charcoal, and fruit enzymes. However, there is limited evidence on their effectiveness and safety compared to professional hydrogen peroxide treatments. They may help remove some surface stains but won’t dramatically whiten.

Does whitening work on crowns or other restorations?

Unfortunately, whitening systems only change the natural tooth color, not restorations like dental crowns, veneers, fillings, etc. These will remain their original shade and need to be replaced to match newly whitened teeth. It’s best to get them redone 2-3 weeks after finishing whitening when your new shade is stable.

Can I do whitening if I’m pregnant?

It’s best to avoid teeth whitening during pregnancy as there is limited research on its safety. Consult your OB-GYN if you’re pregnant and wish to whiten. They may recommend waiting until after your pregnancy to reduce any potential risks to the developing baby.

If you’re in the Easton, PA area looking for professional teeth whitening, consider Haddad Dental. Dr. Kamal Haddad offers customized in-office whitening using industry-leading Opalescence Boost whitening gel for dramatically whiter teeth in just one visit. His skilled dental team takes the time to evaluate your teeth’s condition first and tailor the whitening intensity for your needs. Patients appreciate Dr. Haddad’s friendly, thorough approach and the comfortable office environment. Contact Haddad Dental today to schedule a teeth whitening consultation.

With this overview of some common FAQs, you should now have a better understanding of the teeth whitening process and options in Pennsylvania. Be sure to consult your dentist if you have any additional questions before moving forward. With the right whitening treatment plan, you can achieve a bright, beautiful smile you’ll be confident showing off.