How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last? Top 5 Tooth Whitening Methods Compared (2024)

How long does teeth whitening last? Unfortunately, there is no one answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including the type of whitening method used, your diet and lifestyle habits, and how well you take care of your teeth after the treatment. Nevertheless, we can give you a general idea of how long each of the most popular teeth whitening methods lasts, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

If you are looking to dramatically enhance your smile, teeth whitening is a fast and affordable choice. Tooth whitening enhances your smile and battles the common surface stains caused by soft drinks, red wine, coffee, and some foods. Smoking and aging also contribute to tooth discoloration.

Here are the five most popular types of tooth whitening methods to help you achieve a brighter smile:

1. Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

Teeth whitening toothpaste contains ingredients that whiten or polish teeth, including hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and mild abrasives. Used at least several times a week (or as often as daily), teeth whitening toothpaste can take two to six weeks to achieve results.

Teeth whitening toothpaste results typically last for three to four months, possibly longer if you continue using the toothpaste. However, long-term use of whitening toothpaste can cause tooth sensitivity and thin tooth enamel.

If you want to use whitening toothpaste continuously, alternate it with a toothpaste that protects and strengthens tooth enamel. Also, if you experience any pain, discomfort, or other negative side effects, discontinue use and consult your dentist.

2 . Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips

Over-the-counter whitening strips are one of the most popular teeth whitening methods available. They are also one of the most affordable options, making them a great choice for people looking to save money. Over-the-counter whitening strips usually have a price tag under $50.

But how long do they last? Most over-the-counter whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide, which is known to break down over time. As a result, the effects of the strips will gradually fade over the course of a few weeks. In general, you can expect to see results for around four to six weeks. However, this will vary depending on the specific product you use and your own individual dental situation. If you are looking for longer-lasting results, you may want to consider professional teeth whitening.

3. Whitening Mouthwash

Whitening mouthwashes typically contain hydrogen peroxide or other bleaching agents. These agents work by breaking down stains on your teeth, making them appear brighter and whiter. However, the effects of whitening mouthwash are only temporary and will usually work only on surface stains and last for around 24 hours. If you want to maintain your bright smile, you'll need to use whitening mouthwash on a regular basis.

It is most effective when used in conjunction with other whitening treatments to keep your teeth whiter for longer.

4. At-Home Teeth Whitening Trays

At-home teeth whitening trays are a popular way to achieve brighter teeth without a trip to the dentist. But how long do the results last? The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of whitening gel used, how long you wear the trays, the strength of the peroxide used, and how well you follow post-whitening care instructions.

Generally, at-home teeth whitening tray results typically last between four and six months. However, if you use a stronger peroxide gel or wear the trays for longer periods of time, you may see results that last up to one year. However, if you don't use a powerful whitening gel or don't take proper care of your teeth after treatment, your results may not last as long.

To help prolong your results, make sure to use a gentle toothpaste and avoid staining foods and drinks for at least 48 hours after each treatment.

You can also obtain at-home teeth whitening trays from your cosmetic dentist. These trays are custom-made to fit your mouth, making them more comfortable and effective than over-the-counter versions. You should follow your dentists' instructions on how long to wear the trays and how often to use them for best results.

5. Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a great way to achieve longer-lasting results than all of the above methods. In most cases, the effects of professional teeth whitening can last for up to three years with proper care.

During a professional teeth whitening treatment, your dentist will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth and use a special light to activate the gel. This process usually takes around one hour.

Your dentist may also give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth after treatment. These instructions may include avoiding staining foods and drinks, using gentle toothpaste, and your dentist will give you a custom-fit mouthguard to take home to maintain your results.

There are a few different types of whitening treatments available from cosmetic dentists. Which one is best for you depends on how stained your teeth are and the level of whiteness you want to achieve.

LED teeth whitening is the most popular in-office treatment because it can safely lighten your teeth up to ten shades in just an hour. This laser teeth whitening is the best method to get rid of deep discoloration and surface stains.

Your dentist will cover lips and gums with a protective material before applying a potent hydrogen peroxide gel to your teeth. An LED light is then shined on the teeth to activate the whitening process.

Professional teeth whitening delivers immediate results that can last between one and three years with proper oral hygiene. To keep your teeth white as long as possible following treatment, keep these tips in mind:

• Brush teeth twice daily for two minutes at a time
• Get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months
• Floss to remove food stuck between your teeth
• Limit or avoid sugary and artificially colored food and drinks
• Limit intake of coffee, tea, soda, red wine, dark berries, and alcohol
• Do not use tobacco
• Use (but don't overuse) whitening products like toothpaste and mouthwash

Many healthy foods promote the health and brightness of teeth, including strawberries, vegetables, carrots, pineapple, dairy, nuts, seeds, onions, and celery. Include these in your diet to help maintain your healthiest, brightest smile.

If you are looking for the longest-lasting results, professional teeth whitening is the way to go!

Where To Find A Dentist For Professional Teeth Whitening

How long does teeth whitening last? VIP Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry's teeth whitening treatments give you beautiful white teeth for up to three years. Dr. Austin is one of NYC's top celebrity cosmetic dentists.

You can get the same expert cosmetic dental care as celebrities, all of whom can afford to go anywhere and they choose to go to Dr. Austin. VIP Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry specializes in porcelain veneers and teeth whitening.

Dr. Austin's #1 goal is to make every person feel beautiful, healthy, and confident in their smile. Take advantage of convenient payment plans, too.

For cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening in NYC, call the offices of Dr. Catrise Austin and VIP Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry at 855-2-VENEER or visit the office at 50 Riverside Boulevard, Unit A, in NYC 10069.