Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: three minutes
You finally got your teeth professionally whitened, and the results are exactly what you hoped for; brighter, cleaner, and years of stains gone in a single visit. Now the question is: how long will it last?
While professional whitening doesn’t last forever, there’s a lot you can do to extend the results. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how long whitening usually lasts, what can cause it to fade faster, and what habits help keep your teeth looking white between treatments.
Table of Contents
- How Long Does Professional Whitening Last?
- How to Keep Your Teeth White After Whitening Treatments
- Book a Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning at Clearwater Dentistry
- More Whitening Tips from Clearwater Dentistry
Key Takeaway
GProfessional teeth whitening can last anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on your habits and oral care. Brushing, flossing, regular cleanings, and being mindful of staining foods can help you maintain a whiter smile for longer.
How Long Does Professional Whitening Last?
On average, professional teeth whitening lasts anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. However, how long your results lasts depends on several factors:
- Your oral hygiene routine
- Your diet (foods and drinks that stain)
- Whether you smoke or use tobacco
- How often you visit your dentist for cleanings
- The whitening system used; professional or OTC
| 🦷 Why Professional Whitening Lasts Longer Than Store-Bought OptionsOver-the-counter whitening products may help with mild surface stains, but the results tend to be short-lived. Professional treatments use stronger, dentist-approved formulas that reach deeper into the enamel. This leads to a more noticeable difference and longer-lasting results with fewer applications. |
How to Keep Your Teeth White After Whitening Treatments
Whitening results are not permanent, but with the right habits, you can make them last much longer. Here’s how to protect your investment:
- Stick to a strong oral hygiene routine
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup, which can dull your smile over time. An electric toothbrush may also help remove surface stains more effectively than a manual one. - Use whitening toothpaste sparingly
Whitening toothpastes can help maintain results, but they’re often abrasive. Use them just a few times a week to gently polish away new stains without wearing down enamel. - Rinse after eating or drinking stain-causing foods
You do not have to give up your morning coffee or favorite pasta sauce—but try rinsing with water afterward. This simple habit helps wash away pigments before they settle into your enamel. - Cut out (or cut back on) tobacco
Smoking and tobacco use are among the fastest ways to re-stain teeth. If you’ve quit recently, whitening is a great reward and motivation to stay tobacco-free. - Schedule professional cleanings twice a year
Your regular dental cleanings do more than protect your health, they also polish away minor stains and keep your teeth looking fresh. Ask your hygienist about touch-up whitening options if you start to notice any fading. - Consider custom trays for at-home maintenance
If you want to keep your teeth looking freshly whitened, custom take-home trays offer a safe, convenient way to do occasional touch-ups between in-office treatments.
| 💡Did you know?We offer two types of professional whitening, in-office Zoom! Whitening or custom take-home trays. Ask us about your whitening options at your next cleaning! |
Foods and Drinks to Avoid After Whitening
Your teeth are more porous right after whitening, which makes them more vulnerable to stains. For the first 48 hours, try to avoid foods and drinks that are dark in color, acidic, or high in pigment. These include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Soda
- Tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
- Berries
- Beets
- Dark chocolate
If you do consume any of these, rinse your mouth with water right away or brush your teeth about 30 minutes later to avoid enamel abrasion. It’s also a good idea to avoid very hot or very cold foods, since your teeth may be slightly sensitive after whitening.
For the best results, stick to lighter-colored, non-acidic foods like chicken, rice, cauliflower, bananas, or plain yogurt during the first day or two. Think of it as the “white shirt” rule: if it would stain your clothes, it can probably stain your teeth.
Book a Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning at Clearwater Dentistry
Professional whitening can give your smile a boost, but the most important part of long-term results is regular dental care. Routine checkups and cleanings help prevent new stains and keep your teeth healthy overall. If you’re interested in whitening or need to get back on track with your dental visits, our team at Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley is here to help.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Greeley, CO, (970) 515-3550 or visit us at 3110 67th Ave Pl, Greeley, CO.
More Whitening Tips from Clearwater Dentistry
Want to learn more about caring for your teeth before and after whitening? Check out these related posts:
- How to Manage Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening
- Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe for Teeth Whitening?
- How to Rehydrate Teeth After Whitening: Dentist-Approved Tips
These quick reads offer practical advice to help you protect your enamel, reduce sensitivity, and make the most of your whitening treatment.
