How long do teeth whitening results last?

Results typically last 6–24 months depending on habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking accelerate re-staining. Touch-ups every 6–12 months maintain brightness.

Is professional whitening better than over-the-counter?

Yes. Professional systems use higher-strength gels, custom trays (take-home), and light activation (in-office) for faster, safer, more dramatic results with less sensitivity.

Does teeth whitening hurt or cause sensitivity?

Mild sensitivity is possible for 1–3 days, especially with in-office treatments. We use desensitizing agents and recommend sensitivity toothpaste to minimize discomfort.

How many shades whiter can I get?

Most patients achieve 6–10 shades brighter with in-office Zoom! treatments. Results vary based on starting shade and stain type.

Can veneers or crowns be whitened?

No. Whitening only affects natural tooth structure. If you have restorations, we whiten first, then match or replace them to blend with your new shade.

Home » Cosmetic Dentistry » Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening Boston

Professional Teeth Whitening in Boston

Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and simply time all leave their mark on tooth enamel. If your teeth are not as bright as you would like, our Boston cosmetic dentistry team can help. Professional whitening lifts surface stains under a dentist’s supervision, after we have checked that whitening is right for your teeth. We offer both in-office and take-home whitening, so you can choose between a single visit and a gradual result at home.

Why Choose The Face Dental Group For Teeth Whitening?

In-Office and Take-Home Treatments Available

Well-Reputed Zoom! Whitening System

A Dental Exam Before We Whiten

In-Office vs. Take-Home Whitening

In-office whitening uses a professional-strength whitening gel applied in the chair while your gums are protected, and it is the fastest route to a brighter smile. We use the Zoom! whitening system.

Take-home whitening uses custom-made trays that fit your teeth and a lower-strength gel you wear at home, for a more gradual result. The same trays are useful for touch-ups later.

Professional whitening works on stains like these:

Not sure which option suits you? We will talk through your goals, your timeline and how sensitive your teeth are, and recommend the approach that fits. Some patients combine the two: an in-office session to start, and trays to maintain the result.

Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?

Whitening works on natural tooth enamel. It tends to work best on yellowish staining from food, drink and age, and is usually less effective on grey or brown discoloration, such as staining caused by certain medications or an injury to a tooth.

Whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, bonding or fillings, so if you have visible restorations we plan around them. For discoloration that whitening cannot reach, we can talk you through alternatives such as porcelain veneers or bonding.

We usually recommend treating any cavities or gum problems first, and postponing whitening during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

What to Expect

Whitening at The Face Dental Group follows a few simple steps:

Exam and shade check. We look at your teeth and gums, record your current shade and talk about realistic goals.
Cleaning if needed. Whitening works best on clean teeth, so a cleaning may come first.
Whitening. In the chair, or at home with custom trays made to fit your teeth.
Aftercare. We explain how to protect your result, including which foods and drinks to limit at first and how to touch up later.

Comfort, Results and Cost

Comfort. Temporary tooth sensitivity and mild gum irritation are the most common side effects of whitening, and they usually settle within a few days. Tell us if your teeth are prone to sensitivity and we will adjust the approach.

Results. How white your teeth become depends on your starting shade and the type of staining, and we will give you a realistic estimate at your consultation. Results fade gradually, mostly depending on habits such as coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco, and occasional touch-ups help keep them bright.

Cost. The cost depends on the option you choose. Whitening is a cosmetic treatment and is generally not covered by dental insurance. During your consultation we will give you a clear price and explain your payment options.

Teeth Whitening FAQs

Does teeth whitening damage enamel?

Supervised professional whitening, used as directed, is considered safe for tooth enamel. The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity, which usually fades within a few days. We check your teeth and gums before whitening so any problems are treated first.

How much whiter will my teeth get?

It depends on your starting shade and on what caused the discoloration. Yellowish stains from food, drink and age usually respond well; grey or brown discoloration responds less. We will give you a realistic estimate at your consultation rather than a promise.

Can I whiten crowns, veneers or fillings?

No. Whitening only changes natural tooth enamel. Crowns, veneers, bonding and fillings keep their original color, so if you have visible restorations we plan the shade so everything matches. For teeth whitening cannot help, porcelain veneers or bonding may be an option.

Is professional whitening better than whitening strips?

Professional whitening uses a stronger, dentist-supervised gel and, for take-home treatment, trays made to fit your teeth. That gives a more even result with your gums protected. Store-bought strips and kits are not fitted to your teeth and are not supervised, which is one reason to whiten under a dentist’s care.

Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?

Some patients notice temporary sensitivity during or shortly after whitening, usually for a few days. If you already have sensitive teeth, let us know: we can adjust the approach and recommend products that help.