Are you planning on attending a wedding or a special event? If so, then you’re probably considering ways to look your best for the date. Other than a fancy outfit, having a brighter smile can significantly improve your appearance and confidence. You might also be wondering: how close to an event should I whiten my teeth? Read on to learn about the whitening treatments, when you should start them, and how to maintain their results!
In-Office & At-Home Teeth Whitening
Do you want to enhance your pearly whites by several shades? One of the most effective and convenient options available is teeth whitening. Your dentist may provide this treatment in the following procedures:
- In-office whitening: This process applies professional-grade bleaching gel onto your teeth to blast away stubborn stains and discoloration. Your dentist may also use a special UV light to accelerate the process, penetrate the enamel, and brighten your smile in a single dental visit.
- At-home whitening: You can choose to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home. You’ll be provided with custom-made trays as well as bleaching gels with a high concentration of peroxide. By wearing them for a certain time each day, you’ll gradually achieve a shinier smile with the same quality results as an in-office treatment.
When Should You Start Whitening Treatment?
While both an in-practice and take-home whitening procedure can effectively brighten your teeth, they do have different timeframes. At-home treatments typically take two weeks to complete, meaning you’ll need to plan way ahead of a special event if you want to achieve your results on time. In-office teeth whitening, however, can brighten your enamel in about an hour!
How to Maintain Your Bright Smile
Your pearly whites may be more vulnerable to discoloration immediately after brightening them. For this reason, it’s best to avoid dark-colored beverages and foods like blueberries, sodas, and red wine. Try using a straw if you must drink heavily pigmented liquids. You should also rinse your mouth often after enjoying a meal, and practice proper dental hygiene regularly. But if you want to ensure your results last as long as possible, visit your dentist at least twice a year.
By planning ahead and maintaining good oral habits, you’ll be able to enjoy a whiter smile for many months to come! Speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and they’ll be glad to discuss your options.
About the Author
Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury is a proud affiliate of several organizations like the Smith County Dental Society, and the American and Texas Dental Associations. He received his dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas and regularly seeks continuing education to improve his expertise. He offers multiple comprehensive and modern treatments, including Zoom! Teeth whitening and Spa Dent to brighten your smile. If you’d like to whiten your teeth before a special event, feel free to visit our website or call 903-561-1122.