You want whiter teeth, but with so many options out there, where do you even start? And how long will the results actually last? At first glance, grabbing an over-the-counter (OTC) whitening option seems like the obvious choice; it’s cheap and easy. If it doesn’t work, you can always just get another one, right? Before you buy, let’s talk about what really works and what’s worth your time and money.
Understanding the differences between OTC and professional whitening products, and how long their effects last, will help you make the best investment in your smile.
Quick facts about tooth whitening longevity:
- Professional in-office treatment can last 1-3 years with proper care
- Dentist-supervised at-home whitening can last 1-2 years
- OTC products generally last 3-6 months
- OTC kits can damage your teeth and gums
- Professional touch-ups can extend your whitening
A Reality Check: Professional vs. OTC Results
Here’s what the research shows. One clinical study suggests that dentist-supervised whitening involves better outcomes than OTC whitening products. When you get your teeth whitened at the dentist, you’re getting stronger concentrations of whitening agents, custom trays to spread the product evenly across your teeth, and controlled conditions. Your dentist can tailor the strength of the whitening agent to help with sensitivity, and they know how often you can whiten your teeth safely.
Factors That Affect Your Results and Tips to Extend Them
Several factors impact how long your teeth stay white after treatment. Daily habits make a big difference. Consuming coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas can quickly create more stains. Smoking and tobacco use can dramatically shorten the effects of whitening treatments.
The type of stains you started with also matters. Surface stains from food and drinks respond better to whitening treatments than deep, internal stains that result from aging or certain medications.
Age does play a significant role. As we get older, our teeth naturally yellow from the inside, making it a bit harder to keep whitening results fresh. However, you can extend whitening results by:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice daily
- Flossing every day
- Rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking staining beverages or eating staining foods
- Using a straw whenever you are able
You can also schedule professional cleanings every six months to help remove surface stains before they set in. Another option is to schedule periodic touch-up treatments to help maintain your bright smile. How often you get touch-ups depends on several factors, and is something you should discuss with your dentist.
Ready to Get Professional Teeth Whitening Results in Mt. Pleasant?
At the Carolina Center for Restorative Dentistry, we offer in-office whitening, custom at-home whitening kits, and combination treatments designed to meet your specific needs. Our cosmetic dentistry team ensures that you get safe, effective results that last. If you’re ready, schedule your whitening consultation today.