Are you thinking about getting your teeth whitened? There are numerous teeth-whitening options available, but not all of them are effective or even safe. Our dentists at Burnaby can help you safely whiten your teeth.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
At North Burnaby Dental Group, we 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. In this post, our dentists recommend ways to get the job done safely — and offer some advice on how to keep a sparkling white smile.
Ask your dentist for the best teeth whitening options
For a variety of reasons, our teeth gradually lose their natural whiteness as we age. Based on the current colour of your teeth, the cause of their discoloration, and your specific needs, your dentist can perform a tooth colour analysis and recommend options for safely whitening your smile. Remember that existing restorations may still be painted in the original colour.
Our dentists offer teeth whitening services at home. Typically, you will have two appointments available. During your initial appointment, impressions of your teeth will be taken in order to create a customized whitening tray for you. At your second appointment, you will be given your tray, whitening gel, and instructions on how to apply the gel.
You will wear the trays in your mouth for 1 to 2 hours per day after filling each tray with whitening gel. The majority of bleaching systems yield results in 10 to 14 days. In as little as four to six weeks, you may notice a difference in the colour of your teeth.
Work with your dentist to avoid adverse side effects
Because everyone's teeth react differently to teeth whitening, it's critical to consult with your dentist before, during, and after the procedure to minimize the risk of side effects. The most commonly reported side effects of teeth whitening are gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. These side effects are usually transient and go away after teeth whitening. If the irritation or sensitivity persists, see a dentist.
Avoid dark-coloured or acidic foods and drinks.
You recently spent money on teeth whitening. The good news is that you can take steps to keep your teeth in pristine condition. Coffee and soda drinkers must avoid drinking their favourite beverages immediately after whitening. Sports drinks, tea, red wine, and tomato juice can all dull your new colour's appearance.
Furthermore, after your teeth whitening treatment, avoid highly acidic or brightly coloured foods such as strawberries, oranges, chocolate, and ketchup because it takes time for saliva to form a natural protective coating around tooth surfaces.
Use teeth whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes to keep your smile bright
Toothpaste and mouthwashes that are not prescription-only can help you keep your newly whitened teeth sparkling. Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes as part of your daily maintenance routine to remove stains.
Touch up your smile periodically
Two to three years, depending on your oral hygiene regimen and daily care for your smile. Even though discoloration can accumulate over time, it should never return to its original hue.
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.