Guide
How long does teeth whitening last?
Professional whitening usually lasts from several months to a few years. How long yours lasts depends mostly on what you eat, drink and smoke — and on a few simple habits.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rodolfo Rodriguez, DMD · Updated
What makes it fade
- Coffee, tea, red wine, cola and other dark drinks
- Deeply colored foods, such as berries and sauces
- Tobacco in any form
- Skipping cleanings, so stain builds up on the surface
- Age: teeth slowly darken over the years
How to keep your shade longer
- Go easy on dark foods and drinks for the first day or two after whitening
- Rinse with water after coffee, tea or wine
- Use a straw for iced coffee and tea
- Brush twice a day and keep your regular cleanings
- Touch up with your take-home trays, or book a visit, when you notice the shade slipping
When veneers are the better answer
If stains come back quickly, run deep, or you also want to change the shape and length of your teeth, porcelain veneers give a result whitening cannot. Porcelain resists staining, so the color you choose stays bright.
FAQs
Will my teeth go back to their old color?
They darken gradually, at a pace that depends on your habits. A touch-up, with your trays or in the office, brings the shade back.
Does whitening work on crowns or veneers?
No. Whitening only changes natural teeth, so it's usually done before new crowns or veneers are made.
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