Why Would I Need My Teeth Whitened?
Yellow or stained teeth can make you feel less confident and unhappy. A bright smile is important for how people see you, both personally and professionally.
There are many reasons why your teeth might look yellow. The biggest cause is tooth decay. Even with good care, our teeth naturally become yellow as we age. Some foods and drinks, like tea, coffee, red wine, and blackcurrant, can also stain your teeth. Smoking is another major cause of stained teeth.
Teeth whitening is a quick, safe, and affordable way to achieve a whiter smile.
Types of Teeth Whitening
The following are some very common teeth whitening treatments:
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening only requires a single visit to the dental office to make your teeth beautifully white. Normally, dentists apply a whitening gel to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes.
Afterward, they carefully rinse off the gel, revealing your radiant smile. This process can make your teeth 7 – 10 shades lighter.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
Unlike store-bought whitening kits, professional take-home treatments offer safer and more effective results. Your dentist will create a custom whitening tray that fits your teeth perfectly. This tray holds a special whitening gel that gently bleaches your teeth over time. You can wear the tray for a few hours a day or overnight, depending on the treatment plan.
Take-home whitening is ideal for mild stains or maintaining the results of in-office whitening.
Does Teeth Whitening Last Forever?
Honestly, both in-office and at-home teeth whitening do not last forever, but they can look great for a long time. Professional whitening done at the dentist’s office can last up to 3 years. At-home whitening kits also work well, but they don’t last as long as professional treatments.
How Can I Prolong My Teeth Whitening?
Once you have your dream smile, you want to keep it looking great, and the best way to do this is by taking good care of your teeth.
- Brush and floss daily to keep your teeth clean and white.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings to maintain your bright smile.
- Drink plenty of water to wash away food and drink that can stain your teeth.
- Ask your dentist to recommend you a whitening toothpaste that will help keep your teeth white.
- If you drink something that stains, like juice or soda, use a straw to protect your teeth.
In Summary
Teeth whitening can brighten your smile, but it will not last forever and the stains will return over time. To maintain results, it’s important to take good care of your teeth.
Want to learn more about teeth whitening? The dental experts at Citrus Smiles Dental Studio can help. We offer both in-office and at-home whitening treatments. Give us a call at our Murphy dental clinic at (972) 472-8862, our Wylie dental clinic at (972) 474-3849, or our Heath dental clinic at (972) 433-6500.