How Long Will Teeth Whitening Last?

Maintaining a bright and healthy smile is something many people aim for. But stubborn stains from food, drinks, and lifestyle habits can get in the way of this. Fortunately, your dentist can help through Zoom!™ teeth whitening.

For those considering teeth whitening, this is an extremely effective way to whiten and brighten a smile. Typically, these results last for up to a year, but they can last even longer with proper care. Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining your teeth whitening results.

Why Do Teeth Stain?

Despite what many people think, teeth usually aren’t naturally white. Instead, they’re an off-white or faded yellow. This is due to the layers of the teeth. The 2 layers that determine teeth colour are:

• The enamel, which is the outer protective layer. This is semi-transparent.
• The dentin, which is the next inner layer. This is typically yellow or off-white.

Enamel is not invincible. It’s vulnerable to wear and tear over time, which can show more of the dentin layer. Enamel also stains easily as it’s semi-transparent and porous.  This makes it prone to absorbing colour and revealing the underlying dentin.

Meanwhile, the same goes for dentin. It’s not as porous or transparent, but still absorbs stains easily as staining agents pass through enamel. These stains can develop over time due to diet, lifestyle, and other such factors. 

What Causes Teeth Stains?

Teeth stains are extremely common. The most common culprits are foods and beverages that leave pigments on the enamel. These settle into the pores of the teeth to cause visible discolouration, and the resulting stain can be difficult to remove with regular brushing alone. 

Some of the most typical stain-causing food and drinks include:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Wine
• Berries
• Soda

Certain lifestyle habits can also contribute to staining. Smoking and excessive consumption of dark-coloured beverages are major contributors. Even the natural aging process can make teeth more susceptible to stains. As the enamel wears down, the yellowish dentin beneath becomes more visible.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Fortunately, stains don’t have to be permanent. You can visit your dentist to discuss professional teeth whitening. Here at South Bolton Dental, we use Zoom!™ whitening.

Professional teeth whitening is a process designed to break down stains and restore the natural colour of your teeth. This is typically performed through a bleaching agent. The most common agents used are:

• Hydrogen peroxide
• Carbamide peroxide

First, your dentist will clean your teeth and gums to remove any residual bacteria. This helps make the overall whitening process more efficient. Then, a bleaching agent is applied to your teeth.

This agent penetrates the enamel, targeting the discoloured molecules to lighten the teeth. It penetrates the enamel and breaks down stains into smaller, less noticeable parts. Then, your dentist shines a special light on your teeth to accelerate the whitening effects. 

Finally, they rinse your mouth to remove any excess remains. This entire process takes less than an hour, and you should notice almost immediate results. It’s an excellent way to maintain a bright white smile.

Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?

While teeth whitening can significantly improve the colour of your smile, it’s important to note it isn’t a permanent solution to discolouration. The results usually last for up to a year or more, but your habits, diet, and lifestyle choices affect this timeline.

Proper oral care plays a vital role in preserving the results. You need to make sure to:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a whitening toothpaste. 
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. 
• Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria that may cause discoloration. 
• Avoid foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth. 
• Use a straw when consuming staining beverages to minimize contact with your teeth. 

If your smile is starting to fade, you can always return to your dentist for a touch-up treatment. They’ll work with you to help you reach your smile goals. You deserve a smile you can love, and your dentist is there to help.

Teeth Whitening in Bolton

Teeth whitening is an incredible way to brighten your smile. It’s a safe and effective approach that can offer long-lasting results. Our team at South Bolton Dental is happy to help our patients achieve their goals, and we’re ready to help you.

If you’re considering teeth whitening, come visit our team to discuss your options. We can examine your teeth to determine if teeth whitening is the right approach for you. Contact our team today to schedule your appointment and take your first step towards a whiter, brighter smile!