Thinking about whitening your smile? While there are many teeth whitening options to choose from, not all of them are effective — or safe. Our Surrey dentists explain how you can safely whiten your teeth.
How can I whiten my teeth safely?
At our Surrey dental clinic, patients often ask us how they can whiten their teeth safely and effectively. While whitening our teeth can help us smile more confidently and brighten our smile, not every option our there is safe. Today, our dentists discuss how you can complete this task safely — and share some tips on how to keep a sparkling white smile.
Ask your dentist for best teeth whitening options
Our teeth lose their natural whiteness as we age. This can occur for several reasons and based on the current shade of your teeth, the reasons they've darkened and your specific requirements, your dentist can offer options to fit you. We can complete a tooth colour analysis and recommend ways to safely whiten your smile. Note that existing restorations may not change colour.
Our dentists at ProActive Dental Studio offer at-home teeth whitening treatments to whiten your teeth. You'll see us for two appointments. During your first appointment, we will create impressions of your teeth so a custom whitening tray can be created for you. You'll receive a tray, whitening gel and instructions on how to apply the gel during your second appointment.
After putting the whitening gel in each tray, you'll wear the trays in your mouth for approximately 1 to 2 hours every day (many patients wear their trays overnight). Most bleaching systems need about 10 to 14 days for patients to see results. You may notice a significant change in tooth colour in just 4 to 6 weeks.
How to Keep Your Smile White After Teeth Whitening
Here are some tips on how to keep your teeth white after your whitening treatment.
Work with your dentist to prevent adverse side effects
It's important to check in with your dentist before, during and after the whitening process to reduce the risk of side effects since everyone's teeth respond differently to teeth whitening. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are two of the most common adverse side effects reported by patients who have whitened their teeth. Generally, these effects are temporary and quickly vanish after tooth whitening. If sensitivity or irritation continues, consult your dentist.
Avoid acidic or dark-coloured foods and drinks
The good news is that after you've invested in whitening your smile, you can some measures to keep your teeth white. That said, the challenge for habitual pop drinkers and coffee lovers is to refrain from drinking their favourite beverages immediately after whitening. Tea, red wine, tomato juice and sports drinks can also dull your new colour,
You should also skip colourful or highly acidic foods such as oranges, chocolate, ketchup and strawberries after completing your teeth whitening session, since it takes time for saliva to create a naturally protective coat around tooth surfaces after teeth whitening treatments.
Use teeth whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes to keep your smile white
Over-the-counter toothpastes and mouthwashes can be used as a supplement to your daily routine to help keep your newly whitened smile bright. By brushing twice daily for two minutes each time, you can eliminate stains from your teeth.
Periodically touch up your smile
Depending on the daily care you take with your smile and your oral hygiene routine, the effects of your at-home teeth whitening treatment can last for 2 to 3 years. While discolouration may gradually accumulate, it will not return to its original, pre-treatment shade.
If you notice that your teeth have started to darken again, our dentists recommend touch-ups — ask your dentist for personalized advice at your regular hygiene appointment.
Thinking about your options for teeth whitening? Contact your Surrey Vancouver dentist at ProActive Dental Studio today. We can book a consultation to provide personalized advice.