A smile says a lot about a person; one survey found that 89% of Americans said a bright smile is a great way to make a first impression, and 78% said it reveals a lot about one’s character. Obviously, you’ll want your pearly whites to look their best when meeting new people or going to an important job interview, but unfortunately tooth stains can happen all too easily. How can dull teeth be brightened? And how long can you expect the effects to last? Here’s what you need to know about teeth whitening in Piedmont.
What Causes Tooth Stains?
Certain drinks – such as coffee, tea and wine – can stain the enamel over time, This is especially likely if you don’t brush and floss regularly to remove the particles on your teeth. Certain fruits and vegetables, such as beets and blueberries, can also have a staining effect. You might also notice discoloration from excessive tobacco use.
While you can remove some surface stains with regular oral hygiene or over-the-counter whitening products, an injured tooth could allow food particles to slip through the cracks, causing intrinsic stains that are incredibly difficult to remove. You might also have intrinsic stains due to exposure to antibiotics such as tetracycline at a young age.
How Can Teeth Whitening Help My Smile?
Professional teeth whitening uses a special whitening gel that’s applied topically to the teeth and activated with a special light. The gel contains a bleaching agent that penetrates the enamel and can eliminate surface stains and intrinsic stains. The end result is a smile that’s up to 8 shades whiter.
Note that this treatment only works on certain forms of tooth discoloration; it has no effect on the yellowing that’s often the result of age wearing down the enamel.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Even though an in-office whitening can give you quick, dramatic results, it won’t last forever. Typically, the benefits last for about 12 to 24 months; that said, how well you take care of your teeth greatly affects the longevity of the treatment.
In order to enjoy your new dazzling smile for as long as possible, here are some tips you can follow:
- Avoid the foods and beverages that can cause stains. If you do indulge in a discoloring drink once in a while, use a straw so that the liquid avoids contact with your teeth.
- Brush at least twice a day – ideally after every meal. Your cosmetic dentist in Piedmont can recommend an effective whitening toothpaste that will at least protect the surface of the enamel from stains.
- Flossing is also useful for keeping the teeth clean and healthy-looking.
If you’re interested in teeth whitening but are unsure of the results, consult with your dentist; they’ll be able to show you some before-and-after samples that can help you form realistic expectations and decide if the treatment’s right for you.
About the Practice
At Tylan Creek Family Dentistry, a team of 6 dentists makes it a point to give their patients friendly, efficient care to help them get back to their daily routines as quickly as possible. They offer several cosmetic dentistry options for improving smiles, including Zoom Teeth Whitening. To schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (864) 603-2200.