Are you feeling excited to show off your pearly white teeth? If stains and chips are keeping you from flashing that movie star smile, it is time to head to the dentist. Everyone should have the confidence that comes with whitened enamel. All it takes is a trip to your dentist in NW Calgary for a professional teeth whitening. You will be amazed at the bleaching results that enhance your appearance and help your teeth become cleaner overall.
Why Get a Professional Teeth Whitening?
A teeth whitening procedure performed at a dental office is safe. Your dentist knows exactly how often your teeth should be whitened and whether you are a candidate for this procedure. Once a year is usually the recommended timeframe for having your teeth whitened. This bleaching ensures no damage to your dentin that could result from excessive use of the professional gel. It is crucial that your teeth and gums are generally healthy before you get the go-ahead for this type of cosmetic treatment.
How Do You Keep Your Teeth White?
Extrinsic stains can be removed with a teeth whitening procedure, but for the effects to last you need to take care of your teeth.
Avoid Stain Forward Food and Drink – Eliminating or cutting down on coffee, tea, fruit juices, chocolate, and curries can help deter stains from appearing on your teeth. These items are highly pigmented and can negate the whitening effects. What you consume in the first 48 hours is especially crucial since your teeth are more vulnerable to staining for a short period after a whitening procedure.
Crunchy Bites – Eating crunchy vegetables is great for your teeth since they help scrub your teeth as you munch down on them. These types of foods also increase your saliva production, rinsing away bad bacteria and food particles.
Water, Water, and More Water – Drinking water and sloshing it around in your mouth can help prevent stained teeth. It helps clean your enamel while keeping you hydrated.
Brush and Floss – Normal brushing and flossing need to be kept up to maintain a pearly white smile. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush so as not to cause damage to your teeth or gums. Flossing once a day is good for getting those difficult-to-pick-out particles from between your teeth. This routine also helps keep your breath fresh.
Mouthwash – Use a non-alcoholic mouthwash to clear away pesky particles in your mouth to keep your teeth clean. Alcohol can reduce saliva production which can cause problems like dry mouth, only making your oral health care more complicated.
Use a Straw – Choosing to drink out of a straw instead of directly from a glass can help you avoid teeth stains. The liquid has a chance to go past your front teeth, reducing its ability to saturate your enamel.
A healthy mouth is important at all stages of life, so it is a good idea to take time to consider and implement a healthy oral care routine. Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is also recommended to ensure your oral health is on track and you have strong teeth and gums.
3 Times When You Want to Avoid Teeth Whitening
There are times when you should avoid teeth whitening.
Intrinsic Stains – Some stains are so deep in your enamel that they are impossible to clear up solely with a professional whitening treatment. Dental bonding or veneers are a couple of options to give you back a clean, white smile. Speak to your dentist for an answer related specifically to your situation.
Too Much Damage – Things like gum disease will only make your problem worse and may cause further issues. This is often a reason to avoid teeth whitening.
Pregnant or Nursing – If you are pregnant or nursing then teeth whitening is not recommended. If any amount of gel is accidentally swallowed during treatment, it may negatively impact your baby.
These are situations you need to be aware of so that you know if whitening is right for you. Your dentist will always be upfront and honest about any cosmetic treatment before it is performed.
Ready for Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening results can appear after only one treatment. Speak with your dentist about the number of times you can safely receive treatment to get the results you are seeking. You may experience some sensitivity for the first few days, but if it persists then you should contact your dentist right away. At Northmount Dental Care, we are here to answer any questions you may have.
*All services provided by the general dentists at Northmount Dental Care.
