How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last? Ottawa Dentists Share Tips

Health Apr 25, 2025 21 Add to Reading List

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular dental treatments in Ottawa. People love how it makes their smile brighter and more youthful. But a common question we hear is: How long does teeth whitening last?

The short answer: it depends. The results can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. Let’s break down what affects how long it lasts and what you can do to keep your smile looking white.

What Type of Whitening Did You Get?

Not all whitening treatments are the same. The type of treatment you choose will affect how long the results stay.

1. In-Office Whitening

This is done at your reliable dentist’s clinic in Ottawa. It’s strong and gives fast results. Most people see a big difference after one session.

How long it lasts: Around 1 to 3 years if you take care of your teeth.

2. Take-Home Kits from Dentists

These kits come with custom trays and strong gel. They're not as quick as in-office, but they still work well.

How long it lasts: Usually 1 year or more, depending on habits.

3. Over-the-Counter Products

Whitening strips and toothpaste from the drugstore are weaker. They may take longer to work and don’t always last as long.

How long it lasts: A few months. You’ll need to keep using them to see results.

What Affects How Long It Lasts?

A few things can make your whitening fade faster.

1. Food and Drink

Some acidic foods and drinks stain teeth. The more you have, the faster the whiteness fades.

Watch out for:

Coffee and tea
Red wine
Cola
Berries
Tomato sauce
Soy sauce

you should try protecting your teeth from acidic foods. If you can’t skip these, rinse your mouth or brush soon after having it.

2. Smoking or Vaping

Tobacco and nicotine stain teeth fast. If you smoke or vape, the whiteness may not last long.

3. Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing every day helps keep stains off. If you skip brushing or don’t clean well, the results fade quicker.

Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush at least twice a day, and floss once.

4. Age and Tooth Color

As we age, our teeth get darker. If your teeth are yellowish, whitening works better. Gray or brownish teeth may not whiten as well or stay white for long.

Tips to Make Whitening Last Longer

Want your smile to stay bright? Here’s what Ottawa dentists suggest:

1. Use a Straw

Drinking coffee, tea, or soda? Use a straw to limit how much touches your teeth.

2. Rinse After Meals

Don’t let stains sit. Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking something that stains.

3. Limit Staining Foods and Drinks

Cut back on dark drinks and sticky sauces. Your smile will thank you.

4. Get Touch-Ups

Many dentists in Ottawa offer touch-up kits. These are great for keeping your smile white between visits.

Ask your dentist how often you should use them. Usually, once every few months is enough.

5. Quit Smoking

Not only does smoking stain teeth, but it also harms your gums and breath. Quitting will help you keep your teeth white and your mouth healthy.

6. Brush with Whitening Toothpaste

These toothpastes don’t bleach your teeth but help scrub off surface stains. Use them a few times a week to keep up the shine.

How Often Can You Whiten Your Teeth?

You shouldn’t whiten too often. Doing it too much can make your teeth sensitive or even damage the enamel.

Most people only need to whiten once a year, or every 18 months. Touch-ups can be done more often, but always check with your dentist first.

Too much whitening won’t help your smile and may cause more harm than good.

What About Natural Whitening?

Some people try baking soda or charcoal. While these may remove some stains, they can also wear down your enamel if used too often.

Talk to your dentist before trying anything new. Some “natural” options can do more harm than good.

When to See a Dentist

If your teeth don’t seem to whiten, or if they get spotty after teeth whitening treatment, it’s best to see a dentist. Sometimes dark spots or patches are signs of deeper issues.

Also, not all stains are on the outside. Some stains are inside the tooth and won’t go away with whitening. A dentist can tell the difference and suggest the right fix.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Yes, if done right. Whitening done by a dentist is safe and proven. You may feel some sensitivity for a day or two, but it goes away.

Don’t overuse store-bought kits or home hacks. They may be cheaper, but they’re not always safe or lasting.

What Do Ottawa Dentists Say?

We asked local dentists in Ottawa for their best advice. Here’s what they said:

“Whitening works best when paired with a good routine. Brush and floss, watch your diet, and avoid tobacco. That’s the real secret to a lasting white smile.”

“Get your teeth checked before whitening. Cavities or gum issues can make the treatment painful or unsafe. A quick check-up helps avoid problems.”

“Whitening isn’t one-size-fits-all. Talk to your dentist about what’s best for your teeth. Some products work better for some people than others.”

Final Thoughts

Teeth whitening isn’t forever—but it doesn’t have to fade fast either. With good care and smart habits, you can keep your smile bright for a long time.

Here’s a quick recap: