A confident, white smile may have a big impact and create a great impression. But whether or not you have just had your teeth professionally whitened from a dentist near you or are planning to, you may be wondering: How long does whitening last? The amount of time whitening lasts varies depending on your lifestyle, diet, and oral hygiene care.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
The outcomes of teeth whitening differ with different individuals. Generally, professional teeth whitening will last from six months to three years. This depends to a great extent on how you keep your teeth and mouth clean, as well as how well you stay away from foods and beverages that can cause stains.
Here’s a comparison of various whitening procedures and their duration:
- Professional in-office whitening – Generally lasts one to three years with proper maintenance.
- In-home whitening kits (dispensed by a dentist) – Last several months to a year.
- Over-the-counter whitening products – Typically last weeks to months, but may need to be touched up often.
Factors That Affect Teeth Whitening Longevity
The duration of tooth whitening results depends on multiple factors, including:
- The teeth will become stained by consuming foods and drinks that include coffee and tea as well as red wine and berries and tomato-based sauces.
- Regular brushing and flossing help prevent stains from forming by removing plaque from teeth.
- The stains from tobacco products penetrate deeply into teeth, which reduces the duration of whitening results.
- The enamel layer of teeth becomes thinner with age, which leads to increased tooth discoloration.
- The regular consumption of water helps to remove stain-causing particles from the mouth.
Teeth Whitening Benefits
There are several teeth whitening benefits besides just aesthetics. A brighter smile can make you more confident, appear younger, and make you look generally better. Furthermore, professional whitening procedures can erase stains that set deep in teeth and cannot be removed by regular brushing.
Tips to Keep Your Smile Bright Longer
Want to extend the life of your whitening treatment? Follow these simple tips:
1. Keep Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is necessary to avoid plaque buildup and surface stains. You can use a whitening toothpaste to help you keep your results.
2. Be Careful with Your Diet
Steer clear of dark-colored drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine. If you do consume them, use a straw to reduce contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth out with water after eating stain-causing foods.
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying well-hydrated not only keeps your general body in tip-top condition, but it also acts to prevent stains as it washes away bacteria and food bits.
4. Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker or consume tobacco products, quitting will make a big difference in maintaining the length of time your whitening lasts and general oral health.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Visiting a dentist for regular cleanings can be beneficial to prevent surface stains and maintain your teeth in good shape. A professional cleaning every six months can also prolong the appearance of your whitening treatment.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Many people wonder, Is teeth whitening safe? The answer is yes, when done correctly. Professional teeth whitening treatments provided by a dentist are safe and effective. However, some over-the-counter products can cause sensitivity if misused.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always follow your dentist’s instructions for whitening treatments.
- Avoid overusing whitening products, as they can weaken enamel over time.
- If you experience tooth sensitivity, use a desensitizing toothpaste to help reduce discomfort.
Keep Your Smile Bright with Professional Care
At Brighton Dental, we offer professional teeth whitening services tailored to your needs. If you’re looking for safe and effective whitening treatments, book an appointment with our dentist in Saskatoon today. Let us help you achieve and maintain a radiant smile!