If you are feeling like your teeth are a little dull then you may wonder if you should have them whitened. Here, our Surrey dentists discuss the ins and outs of teeth whitening and how we can work together to help you brighten your smile safely.
Is teeth whitening safe for your teeth?
Our Surrey dentists get many questions from patients about how they can whiten their teeth safely and effectively. While teeth whitening treatments can help us to feel more self-confident with a whiter, brighter smile, not every option out there is safe. Here our dentists offer some advice on whitening your teeth safely and effectively.
Ask Your Dentist About Which Option They Recommend For You
There are a variety of reasons why your teeth may begin to darken. Whether from stains or time, there are options to help restore a youthful shine. Your dentist can perform a tooth colour analysis and recommend options for safely whitening your smile based on the current shade of your teeth, the cause of their discoloration, and your specific needs. Keep in mind that older restorations may still be wearing their original paint job.
Our dentists in Surrey and Langley offer professional teeth whitening services to help brighten your teeth. Usually, you'll have to come in for two appointments. To make a personalized whitening tray for you, impressions of your teeth will be taken during your initial appointment. You will receive your tray, whitening gel, and application instructions at your second appointment.
Following the filling of each tray with whitening gel, you will wear the trays in your mouth for one to two hours each day. Most bleaching methods produce results in 10 to 14 days. You may in some cases, see a change within a month or so.
Use Professional Teeth Whitening to Help Minimize Adverse Reactions
Taking the time to speak with your dentist before beginning teeth whitening treatment can help you understand the potential; side effects. The most commonly reported side effects of teeth whitening are tooth and gum sensitivity. These side effects are usually temporary and go away after teeth whitening. Consult a dentist if the sensitivity or irritation persists.
Avoid Dark, Acidic Foods & Beverages
You just spent money to have your teeth whitened. Luckily, there are ways that you can help to keep your newly whitened smile nice and bright. Coffee and soda drinkers should avoid drinking their favourite beverages right after whitening their teeth. Red wine, tomato juice, sports drinks, and tea can all make your new colour appear dull.
Additionally, since it takes time for saliva to form a natural protective coating around tooth surfaces, avoid highly acidic or brightly coloured foods like strawberries, oranges, chocolate, and ketchup after your teeth whitening procedure.
Whitening Toothpaste & Mouthwash Can Help
Be sure to keep your smile fresh by brushing twice daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste and flossing once a day. Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day as part of your daily maintenance routine to remove stains.
Use Professional Teeth Whitening at Regular Intervals
Depending on your oral hygiene routine and daily smile care, teeth whitening should last two to three years. Discoloration can build up over time, but it should never be restored to its original state.
If you notice your teeth starting to darken again, our dentists recommend touch-ups – ask your dentist at your regular hygiene appointment for personalized advice.