How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Simple answer:
Teeth whitening can last several years. However, many factors affect how long your teeth whitening results last.
The truth is there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.
First, consider the teeth whitening procedure – is it an at-home teeth whitening treatment or a professional cosmetic dentistry treatment? Each type whitens differently and has different results.
Next, consider your lifestyle…
Why? Well, there are controllable factors like what you eat and drink that can stain teeth (like wine, coffee, certain sauces, berries, etc.). Smoking also contributes to discolored teeth.
But that’s not all.
Some factors can’t be controlled. For example, medication may stain teeth, or mouth trauma causes discoloration.
And last but certainly not least is age.
Yes, you read that right.
Each person has a natural tooth color, and as we age, the color may turn yellowish, grayish, or dull. Don’t worry. This is a natural process that occurs when the enamel wears with age.
So you may be brushing your teeth with a whitening toothpaste and avoiding food and drink that stains, and still not see your teeth whiten.
Or you may have tried over the counter whitening products like teeth whitening strips or teeth whitening gels with no visible results.
Frustrating, we know.
At Federal Way General & Laser Dentistry, we love creating beautiful smiles and will explain a few common questions we get about teeth whitening.
Do teeth whitening strips work?
Teeth whitening strips work to whiten teeth at home over a period of time, but they don’t work as well as professional teeth whitening by a dentist.
If you’ve ever used them, you know they’re quite uncomfortable and annoying.
As for the bleaching ingredients in top whitening strips:
They do work to whiten teeth slightly, but if the strips are used incorrectly, they can cause irritation and damage your teeth and gums.
It’s always best to speak to your dentist before starting a whitening treatment of any kind. Healthy teeth and gums are needed, and a dentist can recommend the best whitening option.
DIY teeth whitening means you’re in charge of evenly applying the strip and gel to teeth, and if not done correctly, this can result in grayish or yellowish spots where the gel didn’t bleach teeth.
Another risk factor is tooth and gum sensitivity from not following instructions correctly.
May we suggest just sticking with the professionals? ????
All joking aside, teeth whitening at the dentist is the number one cosmetic procedure. It’s safe, affordable, and super fast.
You get instant results (up to several shades whiter!) with in-office whitening that takes about one hour.
How long does cosmetic teeth whitening last vs. at-home whitening?
Whitening results from a professional treatment at the dentist depends on the person but can last for several years if proper care is taken.
In-office whitening takes about an hour, but the effects can last for years with excellent dental care. There are several ways to make teeth whitening last longer:
- Brush with an FDA-approved toothpaste
- Maintain regular dental cleanings and exams
- Avoid foods and drinks that stain
- Don’t smoke cigarettes
As for DIY home whitening, it can take weeks to see results, and they may last for just a few months or years. That is if it’s done correctly.
One of the advantages of professional teeth whitening are guaranteed results and an instant smile improvement with brighter teeth. This is especially important if you have a big event coming up like a wedding, anniversary, or big meeting.
So what’s the takeaway?
It may be worth saving your time and money by using a more effective treatment like professional in-office whitening.
Get professional teeth whitening near Federal Way, WA.
Professional teeth whitening at the dentist is the easiest way to increase your confidence. It’s safe, quick, affordable, and effective.
Federal Way dentist Dr. Jonathon Einowski and our dedicated staff, use advanced technology and innovative cosmetic dentistry techniques, which means you have access to many of the best cosmetic dentistry procedures all under one roof, including:
- Teeth whitening
- Teeth bonding
- Porcelain veneers
- Gum contouring
- Dental crowns
- And more
We also offer preventative and general dentistry, restorative dentistry, dental implants, and laser dentistry.
Federal Way General & Laser Dentistry serves the Greater Seattle area:
- Federal Way
- SeaTac
- Des Moines
- Auburn
- Kent
- Edgewood
- Browns Point
- And nearby communities
Our office offers Zoom! teeth whitening and custom take-home kits for touch-ups. Your brighter smile awaits.
Schedule a visit today!
Make an Appointment
Or:
- Call us at 253-839-5953
- Email us directly at office@laserdentistrywa.com
