What whitening can and can’t change
Whitening works on the natural color of your teeth. It suits stains that build up over time.
- Coffee, tea and red wine stains
- Yellowing that comes with age
- Stains from smoking
- Teeth that are evenly darker overall
In-office or take-home whitening?
Both use professional whitening gel. The difference is speed and how you fit it into your week.
In-office whitening
- Done in one visit of 60 to 90 minutes
- Your gums are protected while the gel is applied
- A noticeable change by the time you leave
- Good before an event or a photo
Take-home whitening
- Custom trays made from a scan or impression of your teeth
- You wear them with gel for a set time each day
- Gradual change over about two weeks
- Trays can be reused for touch-ups later
What happens at your whitening visit
- Exam. Dr. Sayeed checks for cavities, gum problems and sensitivity, which are treated first.
- Your starting shade. The current color of your teeth is recorded so you can see the change.
- Whitening. In the office, or we make your custom trays and show you how to use them.
- Aftercare. You get advice on keeping the result and when a touch-up makes sense.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
It shouldn’t. Some people feel short twinges of sensitivity or mild gum irritation for a day or two. Tell us if your teeth are already sensitive, and the plan is adjusted.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Results usually last from several months to a few years. Coffee, tea, red wine and smoking bring stains back faster.
- Rinse with water after dark drinks
- Keep up your cleanings, which remove new surface stains
- Use your trays for a short top-up when you notice the color fading
A teeth cleaning before whitening removes surface stains and tartar, so the gel works evenly.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
The cost depends on whether you choose in-office or take-home whitening. You know it before you start.
- Insurance: whitening is cosmetic, so dental plans usually don’t cover it.
- Spreading the cost: CareCredit and Cherry let you pay for cosmetic treatment over time.
- Already have trays? Bring them to your visit. We check whether they still fit.
Teeth whitening questions
Patients come to us from Kingston, Hurley, Rosendale, Rhinecliff, Saugerties, Woodstock and across Ulster County.
Is professional whitening better than store-bought?
It uses a stronger gel, trays that fit your teeth, and a dentist checks first for problems such as cavities or gum disease that whitening could make sore.
Will my teeth turn yellow again after whitening?
Slowly, yes. The result fades over time, faster with coffee, tea, red wine or smoking. A short top-up brings it back.
Is there a downside to teeth whitening?
Temporary sensitivity and gum irritation are the most common. It also won’t change crowns, veneers or fillings, so they can look darker next to whitened teeth.
Can teens have their teeth whitened?
Older teens can, once Dr. Sayeed has checked their teeth. We see adults and teens at Kingston Smiles NY.
