Teeth whitening can be transformative, providing a brilliant smile makeover by removing stains and discolorations from the surface of your teeth. But like almost everything in life, this treatment’s beautiful results don’t last forever. How long does teeth whitening last? Scroll down to find out.
What to Expect from Teeth Whitening Results
Will My Teeth Be Permanently Whiter?
Unfortunately, no. To understand why you can’t expect your teeth to remain permanently whiter, it helps to learn how teeth whitening works. When you whiten your teeth, you’re removing stains that appeared over time, often caused by consuming dark-colored foods and drinks like soda, coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato sauce. Other common causes include poor oral hygiene, smoking, and chewing tobacco. The bleaching agents in the treatment can help your teeth return to their natural shade, which is heavily impacted by genetics — some people are just born with whiter teeth. After you whiten your teeth, they’ll be closer to their natural shade. But the same habits that caused your stained teeth will gradually darken your teeth again.
How Long Will My Results Last?
First, of course, it’s important to note that your results will vary based on a variety of factors. Did you use an over-the-counter product or schedule an in-office treatment? What is the exact brand and product? How frequently do you drink coffee, dark soda, and red wine? Do you smoke? These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself if you’re wondering, “How long does teeth whitening last?”
Today we’re going to focus on what you can expect from Opalescence teeth-whitening treatments, as they’re what we offer here at Keen Smiles Family Dental.
For most patients, the results of these teeth-whitening treatments will last about 6 to 18 months. However, if you quit (or cut down on) the habits that initially caused your stained teeth, you may be able to maintain your bright new smile for up to three years. When your teeth become discolored again, you can schedule another teeth-whitening treatment to re-brighten your smile.
If you want your results to last as long as possible, consider adopting the following habits:
- Limit your intake of teeth-staining beverages (coffee, tea, red wine, dark soda, dark fruit juice, etc.). When you do drink them, drink them through a straw to limit their contact with your teeth.
- Limit your intake of teeth-staining foods (blueberries, tomato sauce, curry, soy sauce, etc.).
- After you eat/drink teeth-staining foods and beverages, brush your teeth soon afterward to prevent discoloration. If you don’t have access to a toothbrush and toothpaste, rinse your mouth with water.
- Quit smoking and/or chewing tobacco.
- Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss once a day.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning.
If you’re interested in whitening your teeth, you likely have some other questions or concerns about the procedure. Contact your dentist’s office to learn more about teeth whitening. You could also explore our blog to learn more about how teeth whitening works, what to eat after teeth whitening, how long teeth are sensitive after whitening, and much more.
Looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist to whiten your teeth? If you live in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Keen Smiles Family Dental. Dr. Wilkinson and his team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. We offer Opalescence teeth whitening treatments, in-office procedures as well as take-home trays. For exceptional and comprehensive dental care, schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!
