Joy Dental Clinic Bongcheon
FAQ · WHITENING
How staining differs from discoloration, which teeth cannot be whitened, and how much sensitivity and how long the effect lasts — questions worth knowing before whitening.
Q1
Because of the nature of the whitening agent, sensitivity can occur, and it is mostly temporary. We reduce the burden by adjusting the concentration and using desensitizers; the degree varies from person to person. If it is severe, we stop and leave an interval.
Q2
It varies greatly between individuals, but in-office whitening usually lightens teeth by 2–3 shades on a shade guide. It depends on the original color, the cause of discoloration and age, and the effect on internal discoloration is limited. At the consultation we show you the current shade and the expected range.
Q3
It varies widely, from 6 months to 2 years, depending on diet (coffee, tea, smoking, etc.) and care. When the color returns, partial re-whitening can maintain the shade.
Q4
Several studies conclude that the final results are similar. In-office whitening is faster, while at-home whitening is gradual and sensitivity is easier to control. Choose according to your schedule and sensitivity.
Q5
Whitening works only on natural teeth; artificial materials such as crowns, laminate veneers and resin do not change color. If there are prostheses on the front teeth, we plan the order taking into account the color difference after whitening.
Q6
Cavities, gum inflammation, cracks or exposed roots can increase irritation during whitening, so we check for them first. If the cause of discoloration is internal, whitening alone has limits, so we also explain other methods.
Q7
Scaling and professional cleaning remove surface stains so the teeth return closer to their original color. This is different from whitening, which lightens the shade of the tooth itself; if staining is the main cause, cleaning alone may be enough.
Q8
Evidence that whitening agents used as directed significantly damage enamel is weak. However, repeating it excessively can prolong sensitivity and make teeth look translucent, so we do not recommend going beyond the target shade.
Q9
For 24–48 hours, avoid strongly colored foods such as coffee, tea, wine, kimchi and curry, and smoking, and cut down on acidic drinks. Afterward, rinsing with water after strongly colored drinks helps maintain the result.
Q10
Whitening is for aesthetic purposes, so it is not covered. Scaling before whitening is covered once a year from age 19, and if cavity or gum treatment is needed, those items are covered.
Q11
Yes. We check the state of the previous treatment carefully and then continue. We assess your current condition with a detailed diagnosis and draw up a new plan for the remaining treatment.
※ The answers above are general information and do not replace an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. Treatment results and side effects can vary from person to person. · Last reviewed 2026-09-11 · Reviewed by Director Jeong Jinwoo (board-certified prosthodontist and specialist in integrated dentistry)
RESERVATION
The answers are general standards. The answer for your own teeth is given at the consultation after diagnosis.
33 m from Exit 1, Bongcheon Station (Line 2) · Directions from Bongcheon Station →
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