It Happens Overnight
There are so many things in life that are bittersweet. Watching our children grow, leaving the office for a well-deserved promotion. But just as life can be bittersweet, there are some aspects that we would like to make go away, like how our teeth naturally yellow with age.
It seems to happen overnight. One day your smile is the same as it’s always been, the next, you’re accosted by that yellow tinge. Whether from age or lifestyle habits, it happens to all of us, and that’s why tooth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. It’s simple, fast, and effective. Sure, aging is inevitable, but why not turn back the clock where you can?
But what are the signs that you might be the perfect candidate for tooth whitening?
1. Healthy Teeth and Gums
Before you even consider tooth whitening, it’s important to take a look at your overall oral health. Tooth whitening isn’t just a Band-Aid to cover up underlying problems. Your teeth need you to look out for them, to solve those underlying issues before they get any worse. This is one of the reasons that it is often recommended to have a dental cleaning before your teeth whitening appointment.
If your dentist detects any issues with your teeth and gums, they will recommend this be treated first to not only ensure you get the best results from your teeth whitening, but that you maintain a healthy smile you can’t wait to show off.
2. Stains From Foods and Drinks
Aging isn’t the only culprit to yellowing teeth. What we eat and drink also plays a part in the color. If you have to get that cup of coffee first thing in the morning, or can’t go through the day without a Coke, these things can contribute to tooth discoloration.
But if the discoloration has already set in, don’t panic. Tooth whitening is ready to save the day by whitening those teeth by a few shades and bringing that gleam back to your smile.
3. No Major Dental Restorations
One thing about tooth whitening is that it works on natural teeth, not on the synthetic material from certain dental restorations. Veneers, dentures, and fillings are made out of strong materials, so they will hold up to a tooth whitening treatment, but be aware that they won’t change shade along with the rest of your smile. If the discoloration you are noticing is on your veneers, crowns, or dentures, be sure to contact us so we can get you on the right path.
4. Realistic Expectations
The results of your tooth whitening will vary based on where you started. The goal is that you will go home with your teeth 5 to 10 shades lighter than before! Over-the-counter tooth-whitening methods aren’t as strong, which can lead to some problems. Some stains go deep into the tooth’s enamel, which means OTC methods might not do the trick. Some discoloration can be caused by problems with the tooth itself, or even be the result of an accident. These types of discoloration aren’t candidates for tooth-whitening—but if you have this issue, be sure to call us anyway! We have solutions for you!
The whitening treatment isn’t permanent, as your old habits will resume their work on your fresh smile, but that leads us to the next sign that you are perfect for tooth whitening.
5. Commitment to Maintenance
The effects of tooth whitening can last up to three years, but to get the longest wear out of it, it’s important to take care of your renewed smile. Be sure that you maintain your good oral hygiene—brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing at least once—and schedule those periodic touch-ups as needed. If you take care of your smile, it will take care of you!
Other things you can do to help maintain your brightened smile is to rinse your mouth out with water after consuming food and drink with the potential to stain, such as tomato-based pasta sauces, and to drink dark-colored liquids, like sodas, through a straw to minimize the contact they have with your teeth.
No matter the reason, there’s an answer.
There are many different reasons why tooth whitening might be the perfect option for you. Sure, maybe you consumed just a little too much coffee (nah, coffee is life!) over the years and now have to pay the price. If your teeth are overall healthy, and you are ready to take care of your refreshed smile, tooth whitening might just be the solution for you!
If you are considering tooth whitening, be sure to contact us to schedule a consultation. We can walk you through the steps, and help you with any other issues you might have.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to welcome that brilliant smile!
