Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures that help enhance the appearance of your smile. You might wonder how long the effects will last and what factors affect the longevity of teeth whitening? In this article we will cover this topic in detail.
Duration of Different Teeth Whitening Methods
Professional teeth whitening procedures are the most effective and provide the most noticeable and long-lasting results. These results usually last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, but it ultimately depends on your habits and how well you take care of your teeth.
DIY teeth whitening methods, such as using trays or strips, can also be effective. However, they usually provide less exciting results. The duration of DIY whitening results also vary depending on the specific product you use and how often you use it. Generally, you can expect to see results for 3-6 months if performed correctly.
The popular whitening toothpaste is a gradual approach to teeth whitening and the results are not as noticeable. With regular use, you can expect a subtle improvement in the shade of your teeth over time. The duration of whitening toothpaste results also depends on how often you use it and whether you consume foods and drinks that can stain your teeth. Also, it is important to use a good quality toothpaste, if you’re unsure which one to use then ask our team for recommendations.
Factors Affecting Teeth Whitening Duration
The reason we whiten out teeth is mostly for aesthetics and we want the effect to last. The length of time that the results will hold up differs from person to person and there are many different factors which can impact its duration. Below we have listed some of the key points to keep in mind if you want the prolong the effects:
Teeth Whitening Method
The method of teeth whitening you choose can significantly impact how long your results last. In-office teeth whitening procedures are the most effective and can provide the most noticeable and long-lasting results, while at-home methods like whitening trays or strips can be effective but provide less dramatic results. Whitening toothpaste is a method of teeth whitening that takes more time to achieve noticeable results, and those results may not be as long-lasting as other approaches.
Oral Hygiene Habits
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits can help keep your teeth looking bright and white. Regular brushing and flossing can remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming. Additionally, not taking care of your oral health will lead to discolouration and staining of your teeth, which will make your teeth whitening results fade away more quickly.
Diet and Lifestyle Factors
Your diet and lifestyle choices can also affect how long your teeth whitening results will last. Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark-coloured fruits and vegetables, have the potential to stain your teeth. Smoking cigarettes is also a significant factor which will contribute to staining and discoloration. If you’d like to learn more about which foods you should avoid to extend the duration of your teeth whitening results, then get in touch with our team at Spires Oral & Dermal Care for tips.
Genetics
Due to genetics, some individuals are more prone to staining and discolouration of teeth than others, which will require a more frequent maintenance to keep your teeth looking bright and white.
Although the aforementioned tips can be helpful, it’s important to consult your individual situation with our dental professionals to determine the most suitable teeth whitening method for your needs and circumstances.
Maintenance Tips for Prolonging Teeth Whitening Results
To maintain the effects of your teeth whitening treatment, there are a few things you can do:
- Regular Brushing and Flossing: Good oral hygiene habits can go a long way in keeping your teeth looking bright and preventing new stains from forming.
- Using Whitening Products as Directed: It’s important to follow the instructions for your teeth whitening product carefully to get the best results and avoid overuse.
- Avoiding Staining Foods and Beverages: Foods and drinks like coffee, tea or red wine can leave stains on your teeth. Try to limit your consumption of those products and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular dental cleanings and check-ups can help remove any surface stains and keep your teeth healthy and sparkling.
By following these simple tips, you can help prolong the effects of your teeth whitening treatment and maintain a bright, beautiful smile for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting teeth whitened by the dentist?
Professional teeth whitening can be more expensive than home methods, but they offer the most noticeable and lasting results. Teeth whitening procedures at the dental clinics typically use stronger concentrations of whitening agents than DIY methods, which can help achieve faster and more distinguished results. Additionally, dentists can customise the treatment to your individual needs and monitor your progress to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How often should I whiten my teeth?
In general, it’s recommended to wait at least six months to a year between teeth whitening treatments to avoid over whitening or damaging your teeth. If you consume staining foods or beverages, use tobacco products, or neglect your oral hygiene, you may need more frequent corrections and maintenance to keep your teeth looking white.
Does whitening damage your teeth?
When done properly, teeth whitening is generally safe and effective. However, overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and even tooth damage. If you’re using DIY products it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-whitening your teeth. We always recommend consulting your needs with a dental professional before starting any teeth whitening treatment. Our team uses professional methods, products and has years of experience which ensure safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile!
By taking your time to understand how to achieve the best results and maintain your effects, you can keep your smile looking bright and beautiful for longer. As always, it’s important to consult with a dental professional to determine the best teeth whitening method for your needs.
Why wait? Contact us at Spires Oral & Dermal Care today, our teeth whitening professionals will leave you smiling!
Dr. Anne Gormley is a highly experienced dentist who has been practising for over 30 years after graduating from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne School of Dental Sciences in 1991. She is also a facial aesthetic clinician, having obtained the Level 7 PGCert in Non-surgical Facial Aesthetics in 2019 from Northumbria University. She received her MFGDP(UK) qualification in 1996 from the Royal College of Surgeons, completed an Open University module in Paediatric Dentistry from Bristol University and finished a one-year part-time course in implant surgery and prosthetics. Dr. Anne has worked in the Restorative Department of the Royal Victoria Hospital and the Orthodontic Department in the Waveney Hospital.
Dr. Anne specialises in cosmetic dentistry, with a particular interest in Align, Bleach, Bond (ABB). This technique involves straightening the teeth using Invisalign, followed by teeth whitening treatments and composite bonding and veneers. She loves enhancing facial features with non-surgical aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxins (also known as “Botox”) and Profhilo. In addition, Dr. Anne also specialises in crown, bridgework and ceramic veneers.