You may look around and notice just how bright white the teeth are of those around you. While a few people may have natural pearly whites, most often it is the result of teeth whitening treatments.
If you have staining or discoloration that has occurred over the years, opting for teeth whitening for yourself could have great rewards. But it is important to know that it isn’t a permanent solution - and just how long it will last will vary from person to person.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Tooth discoloration happens for many different reasons, some that can be helped others that cannot. Here are a few of the most common reasons patients see changes in the color of their teeth:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Certain foods or beverages, such as coffee or those foods with high acidity
- Medications
- Genetics
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Aging
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
On average, professional teeth whitening may last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, with the average length of time being about two years.
Your teeth could remain freshly white for more or less than this time frame. It all depends on a couple of different factors, such as the type of whitening treatment you had, the foods and drinks you consume, various habits you have, and just how strong your level of oral hygiene is going forward.
It is worth noting that whitening treatments purchased over-the-counter are not nearly as effective as professional whitening treatments - and they don’t yield the same long-lasting results we discussed above. If you are looking for an effective whitening treatment, seek a professional treatment instead.
Tips to Prolong Your Teeth Whitening
When you invest in a professional teeth whitening treatment, your dentist will help you achieve results that are natural looking rather than artificially bright white. But taking care of them so they don't get stained again may take a little dedication on your part. Talk to your dentist about specific ways you can prolong your teeth whitening - and follow these tips.
Boost your oral hygiene. Caring for your teeth is your best defense against stains and discolorations. That means brushing your teeth at least twice per day - especially after you eat or drink something that could cause staining. Floss daily. And visit your dentist routinely for cleaning appointments.
Avoid (or limit) foods and beverages that cause staining. This includes things like coffee, tea, red wine, acidic fruit juice, soft drinks, foods with artificial coloring, sugary foods, and the like.
Ditch the tobacco. Smoking and chewing tobacco can wreak havoc on the teeth. Quit smoking or chewing in order to protect your teeth.
Teeth Whitening at Bridgeworks
If you are looking to make a huge impact on the color of your teeth in the shortest amount of time, then professional, in-office whitening treatments are the way to go. A slower-paced, but still effective treatment is professional at-home whitening. The experts at Bridgeworks will help you choose the best option for you.
Contact us today at 860-446-8744 or request an appointment online.