If you’re considering professional teeth whitening, this question may come up: How much brighter will my teeth be afterward? The answer depends on a few factors, including the whitening method used, your natural tooth color, and your lifestyle habits following the procedure.
Our trusted Los Angeles dentist who has been serving the surrounding communities for over 30 years, helps patients achieve stunning results with customized whitening treatments designed to meet their individual goals.
Expected Whitening Results
Professional in-office whitening treatments can typically brighten teeth by six to eight shades in a single session. Some patients may even see results up to ten shades lighter, depending on their starting point and the nature of their stains.
Common external stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco usually respond very well to whitening. However, internal discoloration from medications or trauma may require additional cosmetic treatments such as veneers or bonding.
What Affects Your Whitening Outcome?
Starting Shade
If your teeth are only mildly discolored, the difference may be more difficult to notice. The more stained your teeth are initially, the larger the difference in results.
Enamel Thickness
Thicker enamel tends to whiten more effectively than thinner enamel, which may show more of the underlying dentin (a naturally yellower layer beneath the enamel).
Post-Whitening Habits
What you eat and drink in the first 48 to 72 hours after your whitening treatment significantly impacts your results. Avoiding foods that stain—such as red sauces, dark berries, coffee, and wine—is essential. Sticking to a “white diet” can help lock in the brightness achieved during your appointment.
Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
- To extend your whitening results, Dr. Louie recommends:
- Using a whitening toothpaste or touch-up trays at home
- Rinsing or brushing after consuming staining foods or drinks
Scheduling regular cleanings and check-ups
With professional teeth whitening, you can expect your smile to become several shades brighter—often in just one visit. But maintaining those results requires care, especially in the days immediately following treatment. Dr. Shervin Louie combines decades of cosmetic dentistry experience with personalized care to help you achieve and maintain a luminous, confident smile. Whether you are in Los Angeles, Larchmont Village, or Hollywood and beyond, schedule your whitening consultation today to see how bright your smile can truly be.