Frequently Asked Questions about Teeth Bleaching

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Are your teeth yellowed or stained? Do you ever feel embarrassed because of your smile? Ask Dr. Thompson and Dr. DiGuglielmo about teeth whitening in Essex Junction, Vermont. Our dentists and team are happy to answer frequently asked questions about teeth whitening.

Does dental insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
As teeth whitening is not needed for the health of the teeth, dental insurance does not typically cover it.

How long will the effects of teeth whitening last?
The effects of teeth whitening are not permanent. How long you will keep your new, beautiful, bright smile depends on how you care for your teeth. If you expose your teeth to foods and drinks that can cause staining, the whiteness can start to fade in as little as a month. However, if you avoid staining foods and beverages, a whitening treatment or touch-up treatment may not be needed for a year or longer.

Does whitening the teeth damage existing dental restorations?
Teeth bleaching products that contain 10% carbamide peroxide have no damage to existing restorations.

What is the effect of teeth whitening on dental restorations?
Dental restorations like fillings, crowns, bonding, bridges, and veneers do not lighten with the teeth. Because of this, any existing dental restorations will need to be replaced to match the new shade of the teeth if the bleaching process is to be successful.

Does whitening the teeth damage tooth enamel?
Studies have shown that teeth whitening products that use 10% carbamide peroxide have no effect on the hardness or the mineral makeup of the tooth enamel.

Do teeth whitening products damage the nerve of the teeth?
There is no evidence that shows that the teeth whitening process has a harmful effect on the health of the nerves of the teeth.

If you have any other questions or concerns about teeth whitening, feel free to contact our office today to schedule a consultation.