Teeth whitening is a popular and effective cosmetic dentistry procedure that reduces staining on the surfaces of teeth. Teeth whitening can be performed at home using over-the-counter solutions or professionally at a dentist’s office. The longevity of teeth whitening results typically depends on which of these options – and which specific treatment within each category – you choose.
Professional treatments, which use chemical or light-activated whitening agents (typically with hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient) tend to be more effective and longer lasting than at-home options, with results often lasting up to a year or more.
Over-the-counter “DIY” whitening solutions, meanwhile, can also offer excellent results, they provide the shortest lasting results, around a month or less. These options – toothpastes, strips, or gels – are typically available at supermarkets or pharmacies.
Falling in between are take-home professional kits (which you can get from your dentist), whose results usually last several months, but less than in-office treatments.
How to maximize your teeth whitening results?
There’s no one way to maximize the results of teeth-whitening treatment. The longevity of whitening results depends largely on the whitening method used. However, to keep your whites pearly for as long as possible, adhere to a strong oral hygiene routine and limit your consumption of tooth-staining foods (beets, red berries) and beverages (coffee, tea, red wine).
Find Teeth Whitening in Centennial, CO
If you’re in the Centennial area and would like to learn more about your teeth whitening options and how to maximize your results, contact dentist Dr. Michael J. Franquemont and the team at Michael J. Franquemont DDS to schedule a consultation!