How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
The Short Answer: It depends on the method, your habits, and your starting shade. Most people see whiter teeth for these ranges:
- In-office professional whitening: 6–24 months with proper care
- Custom dentist trays: 6–18 months, often longer with small top-ups
- Over-the-counter strips: 2–6 months, sometimes up to a year
- Whitening toothpaste or mouthwash: helps prevent new stains
If you love coffee, tea, red wine, or smoke, results fade faster unless you maintain regularly.
Whitening vs Stain Removal
True whitening uses peroxide gels to break down stains within enamel. That’s bleaching. Surface polishing only removes top stains — it won’t lift intrinsic color.
Types of Whitening & Duration
In-office Professional Whitening
High-strength peroxide gels with gum protection. Results last 6–24 months with good care.
Custom Take-home Trays
Wear for 1–2 weeks. Longevity: 6–18 months. Easy to maintain with monthly touch-ups.
Over-the-counter Strips
Lower peroxide levels. Longevity: 2–6 months. Budget-friendly but less precise.
Whitening Toothpaste & Mouthwash
Best as maintenance. Prevents new stains rather than deeply whitening.
What Affects How Long Results Last
- Diet: Coffee, tea, wine, curry stains enamel.
- Smoking: Nicotine darkens teeth faster.
- Oral Hygiene: Plaque traps pigments—brush and floss daily.
- Enamel Thickness: Thicker enamel stays whiter longer.
Maintenance Plan That Works
For 48 hours post-whitening, stick to a “white diet” — clear drinks, dairy, chicken, potatoes. Avoid dark sauces and colored drinks.
- Use a straw for coffee/tea
- Rinse after meals
- Monthly tray top-ups
Why Choose BDY Contour Lounge (Darwin)
Professional whitening with tailored protocols, shade mapping, and gentle maintenance plans for long-lasting results.
FAQs
1. How long do results last? 6–24 months depending on care.
2. Do whitening toothpastes really work? They maintain brightness, not deep whitening.
3. Can I drink coffee after whitening? Wait 48 hours. Rinse after drinking.
4. Will it whiten crowns or veneers? No, only natural enamel changes shade.
5. How often can I use strips? Follow box cycle (10–20 days), then rest a month before repeating.