How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

December 12, 2022

Are your teeth stained or yellow? Has this affected your confidence to smile and made you feel more self-aware of how you look?

Then professional teeth whitening in Terre Haute can give you a smile that you will love.

Depending on how stained your teeth are, the treatment can make your smile even a few shades whiter and make you feel like a Hollywood star.

But, as we know, no good thing lasts forever. So, how about whitening treatment? How long can you expect your shiny smile to last?

Well, it depends.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Teeth whitening can last anywhere between six months and two or three years.

Why the big discrepancy?

Several factors can influence the longevity of your white smile, such as:

The Type of Treatment

Over-the-counter whitening kits can only last a few months while professional whitening can give you results that can last up to three years. That's because professional treatments use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth and involve the use of specialized tools that help the bleaching agent penetrate the enamel and remove most stains.

Not only do professional whitening treatments last longer, but they also provide faster results. For example, you can expect to see significant results in just one appointment that usually lasts between one and two hours. With OTC whitening trays, on the other hand, it can take a couple of weeks to get any significant results.

The Aftercare

Teeth whitening is a simple dental procedure, but it still needs proper aftercare if you want lasting results. What you eat, drink, and do immediately after a teeth whitening treatment can significantly affect the effectiveness of your treatment. Try to stay away from staining foods and beverages for at least 2-3 days after the procedure. Avoid items like coffee, tea, wine, berries, soya sauce, red sauce, tomatoes, oranges, and so on.

How to Make Your White Smile Last Longer

While the type of treatment will influence the longevity of your bright smile, that's not the only factor. Even if you opted for professional teeth whitening, your diet and daily habits can still have a say in how long you can enjoy your new smile. With the right care, your professionally whitened smile can last for years. Here's how you can make that happen:

  • Avoid any teeth or beverages that can stain your teeth for at least two days after the procedure.
  • Use a straw to drink coffee, wine, or other staining beverages.
  • Avoid or limit smoking as this is one of the main causes of teeth staining and discoloration.
  • Brush your teeth every day and floss every night to reduce plaque buildup.
  • Use a mouthwash to remove any food residue

Where Can I Whiten My Teeth in Terre Haute?

If you are interested in professional teeth whitening in Terre Haute, then all you have to do is get in touch with the team at Vivid Smiles.

Go to our contact page to schedule your appointment online or give us a call at (812) 803-2340.