Teeth whitening can have transformative effects, making your smile noticeably brighter and giving your self-esteem a huge boost. Thanks to its great results and minimal impact, it has become a go-to cosmetic dentistry treatment over the years. But despite its growing popularity, many people still have numerous questions about the treatment. One of the most common is, “How long does teeth whitening last?”
Dr. Matthew Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center are not only committed to giving you a bright and healthy smile. At our Duncan, OK, practice, we also believe in the importance of patient education. That’s why we are always ready to answer your questions and to make sure you feel completely comfortable with your care. At your consultation, we can explain the different types of teeth whitening offered and help you choose the right one for your goals.
Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today to schedule an appointment.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Though teeth whitening results can be dramatic, they are not permanent. You will enjoy longer-lasting results if you select professional whitening, rather than toothpastes, strips, or other over-the-counter methods. With professional treatment, results typically last between six months and three years, depending on your oral health and lifestyle.
How can I prolong my whitening results?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to fight tooth decay, as well as to prolong whitening results. Diet is also important. Coffee, red wine, and tea are all notorious culprits behind dental discoloration. Some dark-colored foods, like tomato sauce and berries, can also contribute to stains. If and when you choose to enjoy these things, be sure to drink water at the same time, as this will help to wash away food particles.
Of course, smoking is detrimental to every aspect of your health, and it is also an inevitable cause of tooth discoloration.
How often can I receive teeth whitening?
You can receive whitening as often as once a year, though in most cases, you will not need such frequent treatment. At the same time, biannual dental cleanings will not exactly whiten your teeth, but they will help to remove plaque and tartar that cause dental stains.
Does whitening have any side effects?
The most common side effect of teeth whitening is dental sensitivity. Sensitivity is more likely to occur following in-office treatment using a 40% solution of carbamide peroxide than after at-home treatment using a 10% solution.
Unless you already suffer from dental sensitivity, however, you should not let this dissuade you from in-office treatment. In most cases, sensitivity is mild and goes away after a few days. When choosing your whitening method, there are a number of other factors to consider, including budget, time frame, and whitening goals.
Contact Us to Learn More about Our Cosmetic Treatments
Still have questions about whitening or other cosmetic dentistry options? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or give us a call at 580-255-4880.
