Stains, discoloration, yellowing—your teeth can have issues with all of these. The fact is, when you use your teeth to chew food and they are automatically exposed to everything you drink, your smile may not be as pristine as you would like it to be. Thankfully, a dentist can help you out with professional teeth whitening services in the office.
When you visit a dentist to have your teeth whitened, you can walk away feeling more confident in your smile than ever. But, how long does professional teeth whitening last? Here is a closer look at what you could potentially expect if you opt for professional teeth whitening with a dentist.
So, how long does professional teeth whitening last?
How long teeth whitening lasts can vary depending on the type of treatment done, as well as your everyday habits after the procedure. Here is a closer look at how long whitening results can last with two of the primary types of professional teeth whitening.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening, which is also referred to as chairside bleaching or power bleaching, can yield long-lasting whitening outcomes. You can expect to have a brighter smile anywhere from one to three years in most cases.
In-office whitening is performed in the office by a dentist, and it usually only requires one office visit for the full procedure. Essentially, the dentist installs a dental dam to protect your gums and tongue, applies a bleaching solution, and they may use ultraviolet light to activate the gel. After waiting for a short period, the solution is washed away and your teeth are a brighter white.
Teeth Whitening with Take-Home Trays
Dentists also usually provide teeth whitening with special trays and whitening solutions that you take home and use on your own. These treatments gradually break up stains on your teeth over the course of a set of at-home treatments. While the process to achieve the full effect can take a little longer, the duration of those effects can be similar to that of in-office whitening; one to three years with good oral hygiene.
Who is the best candidate for professional teeth whitening?
People who have extrinsic dental stains are usually good candidates for professional teeth whitening. Intrinsic stains, or stains on the inside of your teeth, come from things like dental trauma, aging, and certain medications. These stains can be a little harder to remove, but you may see some differences with the proper treatment.
The best candidates also have healthy teeth and gums. While safe, teeth whitening involves the use of chemicals that can cause problems for people that have decay or existing issues with gum disease.
How to Maintain Your Brighter Smile After Teeth Whitening
The lifestyle habits you have after your teeth whitening procedure will have a lot to do with how long your results last. Of course, practicing good oral hygiene will be especially important. So, make sure you are brushing, flossing, and getting your teeth cleanings at the dentist as recommended. Here is a look at a few of the ways you can maintain your brighter smile after treatment.
Avoid Tobacco
Tobacco and nicotine are extremely hard on your teeth, whether you are a smoker or use smokeless tobacco. In smokeless tobacco, the natural juices in the tobacco and the nicotine can cause stains. When you smoke, the sticky tar in the cigarette leaves behind a yellow or brownish residue that can generate deep-set stains over time. And, the nicotine can also cause stains. After a whitening treatment, avoid tobacco. Even better, consider quitting altogether to protect your smile for the years to come.
Watch Out for Staining Beverages
Some beverages are more likely to cause stains than others. Soda, black tea, and coffee are all good examples. Tea contains tannins that are especially hard on your teeth, and dark-colored beverages, in general, can cause stains. Also, watch out for acidic drinks that can make your tooth enamel more prone to stains, such as lemonade, powdered fruit drinks, and even sports drinks.
Avoid Foods That Stain
Certain things in your diet may also lead to stains on your teeth. For example, dark-colored berries, tomato-based sauces, curry, and even soy sauce may contribute to stains. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid these foods, it is a good idea to make sure you only eat them while drinking plenty of water and cleaning your teeth soon after.
Ready to schedule an appointment for professional teeth whitening in Seminole, FL?
Teeth whitening with a dentist overseeing the process is the safest way to achieve the whiter, sparkling smile that you want. Dolphin Dental Group offers professional teeth whitening services in Seminole, FL. Contact us to learn more about our teeth whitening services and schedule an appointment today.
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