Teeth whitening is an effective and popular cosmetic treatment that elevates your smile by removing discoloration from your teeth. If you suffer from stubborn surface stains, whitening treatments are a fantastic way to achieve a gleaming white smile.
However, it is important to remember that those spectacular results require some upkeep.
Understanding Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening involves brightening the appearance of a person’s teeth by using whitening agents, most commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide-based, to reduce or eliminate tooth enamel staining. Whitening can be done professionally in-office, at home with dentist-supplied kits, or using over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste or strips.
Types of Teeth Whitening and Expected Longevity
The longevity of teeth whitening results varies based on the method used. Broadly speaking, though they carry a heftier price tag and require a greater time commitment, professional whitening results generally outlast those of DIY solutions.
Here’s a closer look at how quickly various whitening treatments take effect and how long you can expect the results to last:
- Professional whitening — Offers immediate results and can last between one and two years with proper care.
- Dentist-prescribed take-home kits — Similarly effective to professional treatment, though results can vary without professional oversight.
- Over-the-counter solutions — From whitening strips to specialized toothpaste, at-home solutions are less potent and require reapplication every 3-6 months.
Tips for Maximizing Whitening Results
The lifespan of whitening results depends not only on the treatment method but also on the choices you make in your life. Here are a few examples:
- Good oral hygiene — Brush your teeth at least twice daily, floss at least daily, and use antibacterial mouthwash regularly to prevent new stains.
- Avoid tooth-staining treats — Limit your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, red berries, and other staining foods and beverages.
- Avoid tobacco products — Smoking and smokeless tobacco products can reverse teeth whitening results and cause new stains.
- Touch-up treatments — Periodically touching up your smile at home can extend whitening results.
Effective and Long-Lasting Teeth Whitening in Madison, AL
If you're looking for a dentist in Madison, AL, and want to learn more about the teeth whitening options available, which treatment best suits your needs, and how to maximize your results, contact Dr. Andrew Henninger and the West Madison Dental team to schedule a consultation!