How Long The Effects of Teeth Whitening Last?

While there are array of options one can choose from for whitening their teeth what most of us would like to know if these treatments are mere flash in the pans or have an enduring effect on the teeth. Which is why in this blogpost, we plumb the depths of teeth whitening so that all your queries about this dental procedure are satisfied.What really causes teeth discolouration?

There is no dearth of reasons for teeth discolouration – wine, coffee, tea, aerated drinks, even some fruits and vegetables likes potatoes, cranberries, apples, etc. Pasta sauce, curry, and balsamic vinegar can also threaten to tamper the natural white colour of your teeth. Staining caused by consumption of tobacco and smoking is also not unknown.

Along with these, tetracycline antibiotics, trauma, chemotherapy, dental infection during pregnancy and intrinsic dental conditions like ‘Dentinogenesis Imperfecta’ can also lead to discolouration.

What procedures are available for teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening can be achieved by many ways – whitening toothpastes, laser bleaching treatments, home bleaching kits, whitening strips, in-clinic teeth whitening, paint-on whiteners, or professional teeth whitening treatments offered by dentists.

How long should the effects of the whitening treatment ideally last?

When it comes to the results of teeth whitening, it all really depends on the procedure/ treatment you opt for. Whitening is not permanent; its effects will begin to fade after a few months or to the most will begin to wane after 3 years. This means that a periodic touching up is required in order to maintain your pearly whites.

What is also important to know here is that veneers, crowns, bridges, tooth-colour fillings, and other tooth restorations are not whitened, irrespective of the teeth whitening process you choose.

How safe is whitening after all?

While whitening is safe, it however largely hinges on the process you opt for. It is also cardinal to keep in mind that not all of us can whiten our teeth, which is why we recommend consulting a dentist before going ahead with tooth whitening.

One can possibly invite soft tissue irritation, sore throat, bleeding in stomach and oesophagus, and a slew of other side effects if the whitening process takes place before assessing important factors.

Therefore, the best way to ensure longevity of whitening is to keep away from tea, coffee, wine, smoking, indulging in curries or highly coloured foods, etc.