How Long Do Whitening Effects Last?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure to lighten the color of teeth. It helps people attain a brighter, healthy-looking smile. Various whitening systems and products are used at home and a dentist’s office for whiter teeth. For example, teeth whitening in St. Catharines, ON, involves in-office whitening and at-home whitening kits.
Before whitening teeth, you may want to know how long the effects will last. Generally, your teeth bleaching results can last six months to three years. The time varies depending on the whitening process used, and oral habits practised. Continue reading to learn more on the topic.
Different Bleaching Processes and How Long Their Results Last
- Chair-side or in-office teeth whitening
This is a dental bleaching procedure carried out by a dentist at their office. It is a safe and effective teeth bleaching method. A dentist may use a Zoom®, KoR®, Boost™ or laser teeth whitening system. Chair-side whitening treatments lift intrinsic and extrinsic stains leaving teeth several shades whiter.
These treatments are customized based on the patient’s needs and desired results. Your dentist will take necessary precautions to protect your gums and teeth during the process. The effects achieved through an in-office procedure last the longest. Depending on the whitening treatment and maintenance, you can have a whiter smile for up to three years.
- Whitening toothpaste
These are brands of toothpaste that contain teeth whitening agents. The agents include hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide and mild abrasives. The toothpaste removes stains when you use it twice each day. You may have to wait for a few weeks to see the results since the amounts of bleaching peroxide are small. They are controlled to prevent teeth and gum damage.
Results of whitening toothpaste can last for up to four months. Therefore, you may prolong the effects by continuing to use the toothpaste. However, dentists do not recommend the long-term use of bleaching toothpaste. Prolonged use may result in gum sensitivity and enamel thinning.
- Whitening strips
These are over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments that provide impressive results when used correctly. Whitening strips contain bleaching agents that remove extrinsic and mild intrinsic stains. There are different brands of whitening strips that offer varying results. In addition, their effects vary, lasting between 4-and 6 months with proper maintenance.
- Whitening trays
These are appliances designed to fit over teeth filled with bleaching gels. Whitening trays can be obtained over-the-counter or from the dentist. An example is a cosmetic dentist in St. Catharines, ON, who customizes whitening trays for home and office use. The trays are used according to the manufacturers’ or dentists’ instructions. You must follow them carefully to achieve the desired results.
How long the effects of these whitening products last vary. They depend on the strength of the peroxide used, how long you wear the trays and oral care habits. Whitening trays obtained from a dentist contain a higher peroxide concentration. They are customized to tackle the type of stains you may have. If you use LED whitening trays with dentist supervision, the results can last for more than a year.
- Whitening pens
They are small plastic tubes containing whitening gel used to remove spot stains. Whitening pens can be used anywhere since they are portable. When you apply the gel, you should wait for an hour before consuming anything or rinsing your mouth. However, the effects of this whitening method are minimal and not long-lasting.
How To Keep Your Smile Whiter for Longer
The effects of teeth whitening treatments last depending on the care provided after. Here are good tips to keep your smile whiter for longer from the cosmetic dentist in St. Catharines, ON.
- Avoid consuming anything that can stain teeth, particularly in the first 48 hours after treatment. Limit the consumption of tea, coffee and dark-colored sauces. Acidic foods and beverages and dark chocolate should not be taken frequently. Rinse or brush your mouth whenever you take them.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing correctly daily is crucial.
- Use whitening trays, toothpaste or mouthwash once or twice a week.
- Quit smoking and using tobacco products.
- Use a drinking straw when taking colored liquids.
Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and dental cleanings. At Girardi Dental, we help keep your smile brighter for longer through touch-up whitening treatments.