How long do teeth whitening effects last?
How long do teeth whitening effects last?
Whitening your teeth helps patients to keep their natural color for a better smile and appearance. Teeth whitening is often required because we have stains caused by certain drinks, food, smoking, an illness, a surgical procedure, and tartar buildup. Tooth whitening should be accomplished in a professional dental office.
Yes, there are at home tooth whitening kits, strips, gels, and toothpaste. However, patients should confer with their dentists because not every over the counter teeth whitening product has the potential to lighten your teeth to the degree that you are looking for.
How is teeth whitening accomplished? First, a gel or a shield is placed on the gums for protection. A traditional whitening product with active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is then applied. Teeth whitening ingredients break down into oxygenation that dissolves into the enamel making your teeth whiter.
With modern technology, a laser whitening has been created that is shone on your teeth to activate a bleaching chemical. The American Dental Association reports that using this new laser whitening technique turns your teeth up to six times lighter in a shorter time frame.
With all these amazing tooth whitening options, how long do teeth whitening effects last? Many persons prior to talking to their dental professionals believe that teeth whitening lasts a lifetime. There is no definitive timeframe for the length of time your teeth remain pearly white. The general amount of time has been around three years. After whitening your teeth your dental professional will consult with you as to the dos and don’ts.
The teeth whitening process can last longer if you take care of your daily oral health. Yes, teeth whitening gives your teeth a temporary vibrant sheen for a beautiful smile for several years. There are several factors that can affect darkening your teeth after whitening. This includes the following:
- smoking/tobacco
- red wine
- prescription drugs
- coffee
- tea
- certain fruit juices
- cola style soft drinks
- age
- trauma and more
Please note that there are also oral teeth conditions that are not conducive for whitening: dentures, filling, crowns, or veneers. After everything involved with a teeth whitening procedure, watch your food and drinks along with regular brushing and flossing. Continue with your appointed dental visits for scaling and polishing. These visits will help to keep your oral environment free from plaque and bacteria that can cause stains and decay.