A smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s no wonder that many people are interested in professional teeth whitening. If you’re thinking about brightening your smile, you probably have many questions, such as, “How long does teeth whitening last?”
We offer professional teeth whitening services at Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD. The results of our whitening treatment can last for several months. Still, the same longevity depends on individual factors, such as how well you follow at-home care instructions and habits. Ready to see how professional teeth whitening can enhance your smile? Contact Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD at 410.834.4284 to schedule a consultation.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional teeth whitening uses bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. The bleaching agents oxidize the stains, breaking them up and making them less visible. Two types of bleaching agents can be used for professional teeth whitening:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Carbamide peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is the stronger of the two bleaching agents to provide faster results. However, it can also cause more sensitivity and irritation. Carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide when it comes into contact with water or saliva, so it’s not as potent as pure hydrogen peroxide. However, it’s also less likely to cause side effects like sensitivity and irritation.
Types of Professional Teeth Whitening
Two main types of professional teeth whitening include in-office teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening. In-office teeth whitening is conducted by a dentist or dental technician in a dental office. At-home teeth whitening is performed by the patient using a kit provided by a dentist.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is generally more expensive than at-home teeth whitening, but it also tends to be more effective. These treatments can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one visit. At-home treatments usually take longer to produce results, but they are often more affordable than in-office treatments.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
If you decide to whiten your teeth at home, your dentist will provide you with a custom mouthguard and a bleaching gel. The mouthguard will be fitted to your mouth, keeping the bleaching gel evenly distributed on your teeth. The time you need to wear the mouthguard will depend on how stained your teeth are and how much lightening you want to achieve. Most at-home treatments take 10 to 14 days to produce noticeable results. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, so you don’t damage your teeth or gums with the bleaching gel.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Lasts?
The results of professional teeth whitening are not permanent. However, they tend to last for several months before necessary touch-ups. Here are some factors that can affect how long the results last:
- Your oral hygiene habits – Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque and food debris that can cause stains on your teeth.
- Your dietary habits – Food and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can cause stains on your teeth. Limiting or avoiding these items can help maintain professional teeth whitening results.
- Touch-up treatments – To maintain the results of professional teeth whitening, you may need to schedule touch-up whitening treatments with your dentist every few months. Your dentist can also recommend at-home whitening products for maintenance.
Overall, professional teeth whitening can provide a noticeable enhancement to your smile. Reach out to Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, and we can help answer the question of “How long does teeth whitening last?”
Teeth Whitening Services at Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD
A beautiful smile can brighten anyone’s day—including yours. If you’re thinking about professional teeth whitening, now is the perfect time to learn more about how this treatment works and the available options. At Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, we offer both in-office and at-home teeth whitening options to help improve the appearance of your smile. Contact us at 410.834.4284 to schedule a consultation and learn how professional teeth whitening can enhance your smile.