Hey there! We at Radiant Teeth Whitening know that caring for your beautiful smile is essential. In addition to regular brushing and flossing your teeth, consider teeth whitening. After all, who doesn’t like showing off their pearly whites?
Many at-home whitening products are available, but professional treatment can be more effective and provide a longer-lasting result. Before diving into teeth whitening, here are eight essential things you need to know.
1. The Whitening Process Removes Surface Stains
Teeth whitening involves using a peroxide solution on your teeth to eliminate surface stains. Depending on your dentist, the peroxide may be activated with a light or a laser. Remember that the results can vary depending on the condition of your teeth – those with grayish tint, tetracycline staining, fluorosis, or other dental conditions may not see dramatic results with in-office whitening procedures.
2. Clean Teeth Will Whiten Better
If you’re considering a professional whitening treatment, scheduling it within a week or two after getting your teeth cleaned is best. This allows the whitening to take hold more effectively since healthy gums and plaque-free teeth are ideal. To avoid post-whitening sensitivity, use fluoridated toothpaste beforehand. However, if you have dental issues, do not get your teeth whitened, as it can worsen the condition.
3. Restorations and Fillings Won’t Whiten
Before whitening your teeth, you need to determine if you have any dental restorations or fillings that may need to be replaced afterward. Unfortunately, the typical whitening process doesn’t work on these, so this is an additional factor to consider when considering the treatment’s cost.
4. Professional Whitening Can Last Up to a Year
Technically, professional teeth whitening is permanent. However, our teeth naturally stain again over time. Consider getting your teeth whitened annually to maintain the bright white color. Just be cautious not to overdo it – whitening more than twice a year can dry out the enamel, potentially causing sensitivity and an unappealing, chalky appearance.
5. The Cost of Professional Whitening Can Vary
Professional teeth whitening is costly, ranging from $500 to $1,200. Factors affecting the cost include your location and the type of procedure used. It’s a good idea to check with your dentist to see what they charge and if they offer payment plans.
6. You May Want To Change Your Diet
You may need to make some dietary changes to prolong the whiteness of your teeth. Try cutting down on coffee, tea, dark soda, red wine, and smoking. It’s essential to avoid these drinks and foods like blueberries or tomato products during the first 48 hours after the whitening process – when the pores of your teeth are more open and vulnerable to staining.
7. At-Home Whitening Products Are a Quick Fix
At-home whitening products like whitening strips or trays have a lower peroxide concentration than professional treatments. While they can’t produce the same brightness level, they can still be effective. For instance, Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips are a great budget-friendly option. Combining these products with whitening toothpaste can help maintain a bright smile.
8. Use Whitening Toothpaste
Although whitening toothpaste alone won’t achieve dramatic results, using it with whitening products can help prolong whiteness. Remember, teeth whitening is just one part of maintaining a beautiful smile – don’t forget to brush and floss regularly.
So, there you have it – 8 crucial things you need to know before getting your teeth whitened. Whether you opt for professional treatments or at-home products, we hope this guide helps you achieve the radiant smile you deserve!