A beautiful white smile is something everyone desires and that’s why professional teeth whitening has become so popular. Teeth whitening is a safe, low-cost way to lighten your teeth without removing enamel or causing any damage. But, how long do professional teeth whitening last? This article will answer all your questions about the longevity of professional teeth whitening results.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening works by using special bleaching agents to break down the stain molecules on the surface of your teeth, thus making them appear whiter and brighter. Teeth whitening can be done in two ways: at home with over-the-counter products or professionally through a licensed dentist.
Professional teeth whitening is the most effective way to whiten your teeth as it uses higher strengths of bleaching agents that are monitored and applied by a professional.
Factors Affecting Teeth Whitening Longevity
The longevity of professional teeth whitening results depends on a variety of factors, including the type of treatment used, how frequently you touch up the results, your oral hygiene habits, and what foods and drinks you consume.
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is performed in one session at the dentist’s office and takes about an hour. During this procedure, a powerful bleaching agent is applied directly to the teeth and activated with a special light. Teeth whitening results from in-office treatments can last up to five years, depending on how well you take care of your teeth.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
Take-home kits are professional-grade products customized by a dentist for you to use at home. These kits come with trays that fit over your teeth and contain bleaching agents that are activated by a special light. Teeth whitening results from take-home kits typically last two to three years if used correctly and touch-ups are performed as needed.
Maintaining Teeth Whitening Results
Regular Touch Ups
In order to maintain the results of professional teeth whitening, it’s important to perform regular touch-ups as needed. Teeth whitening touch-ups can be done with a take-home kit or in-office treatment. The frequency of touch-ups will depend on how well you take care of your teeth and if you consume foods or drinks that stain teeth (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine).
Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Good oral hygiene habits are essential for maintaining the results of professional teeth whitening. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are recommended to remove plaque buildup and keep teeth looking their best. Regular dental checkups are also recommended for detecting any dental issues that could potentially cause discoloration of the teeth.
Avoid Teeth-Staining Foods and Drinks
In order to maintain the results of professional teeth whitening, it is important to avoid foods and drinks that stain the teeth. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, soda, berries, and other highly pigmented foods. If you do consume these items it is best to brush your teeth soon after as this will help prevent staining.
Conclusion
Professional teeth whitening is a safe, effective way to lighten your teeth without removing enamel or causing any damage. Teeth whitening results from in-office treatments can last up to five years while take-home kits typically last two to three years if used correctly and touch-ups are performed as needed. Maintaining teeth whitening results requires regular touch-ups, good oral hygiene habits, and avoiding teeth-staining foods and drinks.
FAQs
Q: How long do professional teeth whitening results last?
A: Teeth whitening results from in-office treatments can last up to five years while take-home kits typically last two to three years if used correctly and touch-ups are performed as needed.
Q: What can I do to maintain the results of professional teeth whitening?
A: It is important to perform regular touch-ups as needed, maintain good oral hygiene habits, and avoid teeth-staining foods and drinks.
Q: How often should I get touch-ups for my teeth whitening?
A: The frequency of touch-ups will depend on how well you take care of your teeth and if you consume foods or drinks that stain teeth (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine). It is best to check with your dentist in order to determine the best schedule for you.
