How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic dental procedures. Having white teeth is just one physical characteristic of an attractive smile. There are many different ways to whiten your teeth, but some are more effective than others. You can try natural remedies like baking soda and peroxide or drug store products like whitening toothpaste and bleaching strips. But professional teeth whitening treatments from your dentist’s office provide the most dramatic results.

If you’re considering paying for professional teeth whitening, you may be wondering, how long does teeth whitening last? Here’s what you can expect and how to maintain your results for as long as possible.

How Long Teeth Whitening Results Last on Average

You can expect your results from professional teeth whitening treatment to last an average of 1-3 years. Your personal experience will vary based on a variety of factors such as your diet, your habits, and any at-home touch up treatments you use in between in-office treatments.

How to Maintain Your Results

To achieve longer lasting results, there are some steps you can take:

• Brush your teeth. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to remove food residue and plaque. Keeping your teeth clean helps to prevent staining and discoloration. When dyes in foods don’t have anything to cling to, they are less likely to lead to permanent stains.

• Floss your teeth. It may not seem as important as brushing, but flossing your teeth removes food particles and plaque from the spaces in between your teeth. These places can also become stained and discolored, especially if there is already plaque on the teeth for dyes to cling to.

• Go to the dentist every 6 months. Dental cleanings will help keep your teeth looking white as well. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque that build up on the teeth that brushing doesn’t reach. The process also involves polishing the teeth to make the surface smooth and less likely to be stained.

• Avoid teeth staining foods, beverages, and habits. There are some things you may eat and drink and some habits you may engage in that will cause your results to diminish faster. Consider the list below.

Foods, Beverages, and Habits to Avoid for Whiter Teeth

The following items should be avoided for longer lasting teeth whitening results:

• Red wine. The deep red or purple color of wine can stain your teeth so they may not stay white as long following treatment, especially if you drink red wine regularly.

• Dark or bright colored soft drinks. Brown or bright colored soft drinks, including sports drinks, can stain your teeth and make them look dull sooner.

• Blueberries, cherries, pomegranate, and blackberries. Many berries contain bright pigmentation that can stain teeth if you eat them regularly.

• Coffee and tea. Both coffee and tea, some of the most popular caffeinated drinks can stain your teeth, especially if you drink them daily.

• Bright colored fruit juices. Grape juice, cherry juice, and any bright colored fruit juices can also stain your teeth and diminish your results more quickly.

• Smoking and vaping. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and even vaping can stain your teeth and reduce the length of time that your teeth whitening results last. Chewing tobacco can have the same effect.

• Constant sipping or snacking. If you don’t want to avoid the foods and beverages above, try to drink them in one sitting rather than sipping all day. It would also help to brush your teeth after consuming them.

Blossom Dentistry Provides Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment 

Do you want a teeth whitening treatment that will last? Professional teeth whitening from Blossom Dentistry provides dramatic results in just one in-office treatment. We also provide take-home treatment for those that would prefer to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their own home. Take-home whitening comes with custom-fit trays you can wear at night. You can also use the take-home treatment as a means for touch-ups between your in-office treatments. This combination will help your teeth stay white for longer.

Call 202-922-2900 today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment. We look forward to helping you get a whiter smile with lasting results.