How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Professional teeth whitening is a long-lasting method for creating a brilliant smile. A potent peroxide solution breaks up and removes stains from tooth enamel, taking years off your smile. On average, in-office teeth whitening lasts about one to three years.

Methods of Teeth Whitening

Our practice offers two options for patients interested in brightening their smiles:

In-Office Zoom! Whitening

Zoom! is one of the most advanced in-office teeth whitening systems. What sets Zoom! apart from its competitors is that it creates long-lasting results in a single one-hour session. You may be able to take eight shades off your teeth in as little as one session.

The first step in Zoom! whitening protects your teeth and gums against this powerful solution. Your dentist may use retractors, gel, or a dental dam.

The dentist applies the strong peroxide gel to all tooth surfaces that are visible when you smile. Next, they use the Zoom LED lamp to activate the gel. As the peroxide breaks down, it creates free oxygen that enters the enamel and eliminates stains.

After treatment, your dentist will rinse the gel carefully and repeat the treatment if necessary. After finishing your treatment and applying a final rinse, the dentist will use a fluoride treatment to reduce sensitivity and seal the pores in the enamel.

Professional-Grade Take-Home Whitening

Take-home whitening is more gradual but highly effective. Your teeth will change shades over time, giving a more natural look.

How to Help Your Teeth Whitening Treatment Last Longer

During the first few days after teeth whitening, you must follow these directions closely:

• Avoid all intensely pigmented foods and beverages, including soda, berries, red meat, coffee, curry, tea, red wine, and dark chocolate
• Be careful with lipsticks that might stain your teeth

Use these recommendations to keep your teeth bright and stains from re-forming:

• Drink staining beverages with a straw
• If you cannot brush right away, rinse your mouth after you have vividly colored food and drinks
• Brush at least twice daily for two minutes
• Floss once daily or use a water flosser device
• Avoid using activated charcoal or other highly abrasive toothpaste to avoid enamel damage
• Stay hydrated

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Most healthy adult patients are excellent candidates for the procedure. However, patients with tooth-colored restorations that are visible when they smile should know that whitening solutions do not affect crowns, bridges, and implants.

Why is professional whitening better than over-the-counter whitening?

Professional whitening is faster, safer, and more effective than over-the-counter solutions. Most whitening products in a pharmacy, supermarket, or discount store are safe but work slowly. Products purchased online or from unknown sellers may be so strong that they could cause extreme sensitivity and burn your gums.

Call Springfield Healthy Smiles

Professional teeth whitening is your easiest, fastest option for creating a brilliant look. Please call our Springfield, VA, practice at 703-866-7000 today to book your consultation.