Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help enhance your smile by reducing stains and discoloration on your teeth. If you're considering teeth whitening, you may be wondering when is the best time to have the procedure done. In this article, we will discuss ten different aspects of teeth whitening and provide detailed information on when you can get your teeth whitened.
1. Age
The age at which you can get your teeth whitened depends on the individual. While most dentists recommend waiting until at least age 14-15, it is essential to consult with your dentist before considering teeth whitening for teenagers. The dentist will evaluate the maturity of the teeth and determine if the procedure is suitable.
In general, adults of any age can undergo teeth whitening procedures. However, it is crucial to consider the overall health of your teeth and gums before proceeding with any cosmetic dental treatment.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
One factor to consider when determining the right time for teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. Teeth whitening can sometimes cause temporary tooth sensitivity during and after the procedure. If you already have sensitive teeth, it is recommended to address this issue with your dentist before undergoing whitening treatment.
Your dentist may suggest desensitizing treatments or recommend alternative whitening methods that are less likely to cause sensitivity.
3. Dental Restorations
If you have dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, or veneers, it's important to know that teeth whitening may not be effective on these restorations. Whitening agents primarily work on natural teeth and may not produce the desired results on dental restorations.
Before getting your teeth whitened, it's essential to consult with your dentist to discuss the options available for improving the color of your dental restorations.
4. Oral Health
Good oral health is crucial before undergoing any cosmetic dental treatment. It is recommended to have a dental check-up and teeth cleaning before getting your teeth whitened. This ensures that there are no underlying dental issues that need to be addressed before whitening.
Your dentist will also evaluate the overall health of your mouth, including your gums. If you have gum disease or other oral health concerns, they may recommend addressing these issues before proceeding with teeth whitening.
5. Lifestyle Habits
Your lifestyle habits can affect the longevity of teeth whitening results. If you are a smoker or frequently consume staining foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine, your teeth may become discolored again soon after whitening.
To maintain the results of teeth whitening, it is recommended to limit or avoid these habits. If you are unwilling to make these lifestyle changes, it may be best to postpone teeth whitening until you can commit to maintaining the results.
6. Timing of Special Occasions
If you have a special occasion coming up, such as a wedding, graduation, or job interview, you may consider getting your teeth whitened beforehand to enhance your smile for the event. However, it is important to plan your teeth whitening procedure well in advance to allow for any potential sensitivity or touch-up treatments.
Consult with your dentist to determine the ideal timing to get your teeth whitened before your special occasion.
7. Professional vs. At-Home Whitening
Teeth whitening can be done either professionally at a dental office or at home using over-the-counter whitening products. Professional whitening treatments performed by a dentist often provide more effective and longer-lasting results.
The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary depending on factors such as the location and expertise of the dentist. On average, professional teeth whitening can range from $500 to $1,000.
8. Over-The-Counter Whitening
If professional teeth whitening is not within your budget, over-the-counter whitening products can be an alternative. These products include whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste.
The cost of over-the-counter whitening products varies, with whitening strips ranging from $20 to $50 and whitening toothpaste costing around $5 to $15.
9. Duration of Whitening
The duration of your teeth whitening treatment will depend on the method chosen. In-office whitening treatments usually take about one to two hours, while at-home treatments can take several weeks to achieve the desired results.
It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or the product manufacturer to ensure safe and effective whitening.
10. Maintenance and Touch-Ups
Teeth whitening is not a permanent solution, and the results may fade over time. However, with proper maintenance and regular touch-ups, you can extend the longevity of your whitened smile.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding staining habits, and scheduling regular dental cleanings can help keep your teeth bright and white. Your dentist may also recommend periodic touch-up treatments to maintain the desired level of whiteness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does teeth whitening cause any side effects?
A: Temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common side effects of teeth whitening. However, these side effects are usually mild and fade away quickly.
Q: How long do the whitening results last?
A: The durability of teeth whitening results varies depending on factors such as oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. On average, teeth whitening results can last from six months to two years.
Q: Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental braces?
A: It is not recommended to undergo teeth whitening while wearing dental braces. The whitening agents cannot penetrate the brackets and wires, leading to uneven whitening results. It is best to wait until the braces are removed to whiten your teeth.
References:
1. American Dental Association. https://www.ada.org/en
2. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/
3. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/
