Buzz
Everyone desires brighter teeth, and TikTok is flooded with questionable home whitening remedies. There are even chewing gums that claim to offer (barely noticeable) whitening effects. But if you skip those gimmicks and opt for professional whitening or a legitimate home product, how long will your teeth remain white?
The success of any whitening treatment depends on how stained your teeth are and the type of stains present. Extrinsic stains, such as those from coffee and cigarettes, are easier to remove compared to intrinsic stains caused by aging, medication, or medical conditions. To make whitening results last longer, avoid foods and drinks that cause extrinsic stains, like using a straw for iced coffee instead of sipping directly from a mug.
Professional whitening services
If you undergo a professional teeth whitening procedure at the dentist (often referred to as chairside whitening), the results can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, with most dentists estimating about a year as the average duration. Since various whitening treatments exist, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist about the specific procedure they'll use and how long the effects typically last. They may also provide aftercare guidelines, such as avoiding wine and coffee for a few days post-treatment, to help prolong the results.
At-home whitening trays
Whitening trays provided by a dentist generally require a few weeks of use before noticeable results appear, but those effects often last for six months or longer.
The duration of whitening effects depends on the type of treatment and its source. Trays provided by a dentist are custom-made for your mouth, and you fill them with a gel they supply. There are also generic trays available for purchase that can be filled with whitening gel at home.
Some whitening systems suggest using them regularly, such as once a month, while others recommend repeating the procedure every six months or annually.
Whitening strips
The effects of tooth whitening strips don’t last as long as professional treatments, but most brands claim that their results can last for up to six months. For instance, Crest Whitestrips promise “6+ months” of whiteness after using them once daily for 20 days. (They also note that some individuals might need two boxes, which equals 40 days of treatment, to achieve noticeable results.)
Whitening pens
Tooth whitening pens are less effective than other whitening treatments but are popular for their convenience and speed. They can give your teeth a temporary whiter appearance. (Colgate, for example, suggests using a whitening pen for a quick touch-up before special events.) However, unlike strips, trays, or in-office procedures, the results don’t last. If you’re looking for long-term whiteness without constant pen use, you may want to choose a different whitening method.
