How long does teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening is a popular way to enhance your smile—but how long do the results actually last? That depends on the type of whitening method used and how well the teeth are cared for afterward. On average, professional whitening treatments can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. At-home whitening methods usually last 2 to 6 months.
Here are some factors that can influence how long whitening treatments last:
Daily oral hygiene. Teeth will stay whiter when a person maintains consistent brushing, flossing, and dental checks.
Lifestyle choices. Things like smoking and eating dark-colored foods like coffee and wine can discolor teeth faster.
Age. As people age, tooth enamel thins, causing whitening treatments to have shorter results.
Professional Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening is the most effective and longest-lasting option. During a whitening appointment, the dentist uses high-strength bleaching agents—sometimes enhanced with light or laser technology—to remove deep stains quickly and safely.
Benefits of professional whitening:
Immediate results (often in one visit)
Long lasting outcomes (up to 3 years)
Enamel-safe
At-Home Teeth Whitening Options
At-home whitening is convenient, but may take longer to see results and often need touch-ups.
Whitening strips typically last around 6 months and are one of the best do-it-yourself whitening methods. Whitening strips can harm the teeth, especially if used too often, so speak to a dentist for recommendations on safe brands.
Gel trays work similarly to strips and are contingent on the strength of the peroxide and how long they are worn. Some dental offices provide these trays, with results lasting around a year.
Toothpastes take weeks to see results, but can last for 3 or 4 months. They often use whitening ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or mild abrasives, which only treat the surface of the teeth. They are not great for long-term use because they can be hard on the enamel.
Whitening mouthwashes take a while to see results and remove surface stains. Unfortunately, the results may not last very long, or show noticeable results.
Ready to Whiten Your Teeth?
Experience the ease and speed of professional teeth whitening results that last, and schedule a whitening appointment at Hale Family Dentistry today.