How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last? Will I Need More Bleaching?
If you want to do something about yellow teeth or a drab-looking smile, consider teeth whitening to bleach away stains and discoloration. If you get your teeth whitened at our dental office in Huntington Beach, CA, your smile will appear several shades whiter. That’s because we use professional bleaching agents to achieve excellent whitening results.
But how long do teeth whitening results last?
Dr. Andrew G. Mortensen gets that question a lot, and it’s a fair one to ask. If you’re investing in your smile by getting cosmetic work, you want to know if it’s worthwhile. We can assure you that teeth whitening is worth it and the results will last, but it’s important to have realistic expectations.
How Long Will My Teeth Whitening Results Last?
For professional in-office teeth whitening treatment, the results will typically last about 2-3 years, give or take.
For at-home whitening kits and products, the results only last for several months.
Here you can see that dentist-supervised whitening is much more effective, but we have to acknowledge that teeth eventually get stained again.
Why Do Whitened Teeth Get Stained Again?
Well, why do your teeth get stained in the first place? The long-term exposure to food, beverages, and natural wear and tear will take their toll on the teeth. Eventually, the enamel layer of your teeth will get discolored.
While tooth discoloration is unavoidable to a certain extent, there are several things you can do to make sure your teeth whitening results last.
How to Prevent Stains After Teeth Whitening Treatment
- Avoid all tobacco products, which includes vaping
- Practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist every six months
- Drink beverages with a straw if appropriate to bypass the teeth
- Avoid foods and beverages that stain teeth if possible
Can I Get Additional Teeth Whitening Treatments?
Yes!
In fact, many teeth whitening patients come back to our Huntington Beach dental office for touch-up bleaching sessions. These in-office whitening touch-ups are a great way to brighten your smile bit by bit.
During your regular check-ups and teeth cleanings at our office, we can let you know if a touch-up whitening session is a good idea.
Other Options to Whiten Stained Teeth
If you’re looking for a longer-lasting option than teeth whitening, you may want to consider dental veneers to mask cosmetic flaws on your teeth. These thin, tooth-colored shells can hide chips, cracks, deep stains, and spacing problems. The best part is that veneers are stain-resistant, so you won’t have to deal with discoloration in most situations.
Veneers will usually last 10-15 years with proper care. Once they’ve worn down, the veneers can easily be replaced.
We Can Create a Treatment Plan Just for You
Whether you’re interested in whitening, veneers, or another dental treatment option, we’ll be sure to discuss what’s best for your needs and your budget.
Set Up a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
If you want to brighten up your smile, we’re ready to help. For more information about teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures, contact our Huntington Beach dental practice.