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Just got out of the dentist's chair and caught a glimpse of your sparkling white teeth in the mirror. But you can't help wondering how long it will last. This is the question many people ask themselves when thinking about or after having had Teeth Whitening Dentistry done. Unfortunately, there is no black and white answer as to how long results will last since it is dependent on several factors including lifestyle choices, genetics, and which type of treatment was used.
What Happens to Your Teeth During a Professional Whiten
Unlike whitening strips bought at the store, a professional treatment uses a much stronger bleach and other measures to make your teeth whiter. Your gums are also protected and professional dentists can take more measures to whiten your teeth. This usually means a much better result than store bought kits and lasts longer too.
Average Lifespan
An average professional-grade bleaching course will keep your teeth beautifully white for six months to two years. It is a decent period, but it is not eternal, so you will have to invest in teeth whitening periodically. The exact interval between your professional dental bleaching sessions depends on how hard you treat your teeth. For instance, if you are a coffee and red wine lover, you will see stains return faster than someone who only drinks water and herbal tea.
Everyday Habits That Undo Your Results
Coffee, tea, wine, dark sauces, and even berries are some of the most common culprits that leave stubborn pigments on the enamel. One of the strongest enemies that speed up the yellowing process is smoking. Of course, it is almost impossible to give up entirely, but you need to be especially careful after a whitening procedure because the enamel becomes particularly vulnerable.
Why Enamel Thickness Is Important Than You Think
An attribute which most people would not consider as a determining factor for teeth whitening is the enamel thickness. The enamel is not found naturally in the same thickness and density in every person, so it may be a factor in whether the results are long lasting. The thinner the enamel is on the teeth, the less protection it will provide from the yellowing of the dentin underneath. This means that the result will not be as dramatic and long lasting as it would be for a person whose enamel is thicker and denser.
The Difference Between In-Office and Take-Home Whitening Kits
In-office treatment tends to have faster, more dramatic results due to the higher concentration of the solution used under a professional’s care. Take-home kits, on the other hand, prescribed by a dentist tend to be gentler and allow for slower but potentially more consistent improvement over time due to the prolonged use. Both options are great, but it boils down to how much time one is willing to invest in order to achieve their desired level of whiteness.
Touch-Up Treatments and How Often You Might Need Them
Most dentists including Olive family dentistry will recommend that their patients come in every six to twelve months for a touch up to ensure that they maintain their dazzling smile especially if they are heavy coffee or wine drinkers in their daily life.These sessions are shorter and less invasive than the initial treatment hence most people do not have to worry about frequent visits to the dentist.
When a Dental Emergency Interrupts Your Whitening Plans
Sometimes life throws a curveball, for example, you might find yourself with a chipped tooth or some other emergency that has nothing to do with vanity. In such cases, an Emergency dental implant consultation takes priority over any dental cosmetic procedures because you have a more pressing concern than having beautiful teeth.
Simple Daily Procedures that can Help Whitening Last Longer
Drinking dark-colored beverages through a straw, rinsing one's mouth with water after consuming staining foods, and practicing proper brushing techniques are all methods that could make one's whitening treatment last longer. None of these require a major change in one's lifestyle, only a small amount of caution in the weeks and months following the treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the length of time that teeth stay white depends on several factors, ranging from an individual’s oral hygiene to the structure of one’s enamel. It is hard to tell someone exactly how long their teeth will stay white because there are many variables; however, with proper maintenance and occasional touch-ups, one should be able to enjoy their bright smile for as long as they want. Finally, if a dental emergency occurs, such as an Emergency dental implant, saving the natural teeth should be the main priority, and cosmetic procedures can be postponed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my teeth’s enamel be permanently damaged as a result of the process?
It should not cause any lasting damage assuming that the process is performed correctly and not abused.
Will crowns or veneers be in any way affected by the process?
Crowns and veneers are usually resistant to all of the mechanisms mentioned above, meaning that they should not be permanently discolored in any way.
Is it normal to feel sensitive to certain foods and temperatures after having the procedure done?
In most cases, yes – however, the effects should be rather mild and short-lasting, vanishing entirely after a day or two.
How long after the procedure should I avoid consuming colored foods?
You should avoid consuming intensely colored meals for at least 24-48 hours after the procedure.
