The holiday season is well known for gift-giving. You likely have a list in mind of gifts for your favorite people; why not include yourself? Teeth whitening is one gift you can give yourself this year that will last for longer than over-the-counter whitening strips and is a great way to reward yourself for all you’ve accomplished this year. Another reason to consider teeth whitening is the amount of treats you’re likely to consume this season. From red wines to chocolate, these tasty foods and drinks can discolor your teeth.
Read on to learn more about what causes tooth discoloration, and how teeth whitening can help.
Common Causes Of Teeth Discoloration
In order to decide whether whitening is right for you, it’s important to understand what causes discolored teeth. Most people know that certain foods or lifestyle choices, such as smoking, can discolor teeth. You may be less aware of these factors, however:
Aging
It’s normal for the tooth enamel, or outer layer of the teeth, to wear away with time. As this happens, the natural whiteness can start to fade.
Genetics
Some people are just born with naturally white teeth; others have to work at it.
Medications
Medications of all types can have varying side effects and teeth discoloration is one of them. Medication for acne, for example, can clear the skin while also causing tooth staining when taken by children whose teeth are still developing.
Preparing For Your Teeth Whitening Procedure
Professional whitening involves more than simply booking the appointment. For best results, follow these steps:
Discuss With Your Dentist
Your dentist will first make sure that you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. That means having good oral health practices, as well as which method of whitening will work best.
Address Underlying Health Issues
Certain conditions, such as gum disease or cavities, could worsen with teeth whitening so these issues should be addressed with your dentist.
Make Sure Your Teeth Are Clean
Whitening is not very effective on teeth that are stained with plaque or tartar. Your dentist will want to remove stains and buildup before the whitening process in order for the agents to stick better to your tooth enamel.
Know The Potential Side Effects
Side effects from teeth whitening are minimal, but can result in gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. Ask your dentist for help managing these side effects if they should arise after the whitening procedure.
Tips To Make Your Teeth Whitening Last
Make your whitened teeth last long into 2025 by doing the following:
Have A Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Most dental issues you’ll face in your lifetime can be prevented with good health habits at home. That means brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice daily: in the morning after you wake up, and at night before you go to sleep. Follow up with thorough flossing to remove plaque that the brush couldn’t reach.
Choose Snacks And Drinks Wisely
There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself every now and then. But certain foods and beverages can cause discoloration over time when consumed regularly: coffee, red wine, berries, and dark-colored sodas are the biggest culprits. Enjoy these beverages in moderation.
See Your Dentist Regularly
After maintaining a regular dental hygiene routine, visiting your dentist twice annually is the next best way to keep your mouth healthy. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you may have missed with the brush and floss. Your dentist can also catch any issues, such as gingivitis, early on and treat them before they cause bigger problems.
Avoid Tobacco
We know that cigarettes increase the risk of lung cancer, but it’s not good for oral health, either. Use of tobacco in any form can stain the enamel, increase plaque build-up, and cause bad breath. Consider quitting not just to keep your teeth white, but to maintain overall health.
Boynton Beach Teeth Whitening Services
You can find a number of teeth whitening products at any grocery store, but these treatments are not always as effective as professional teeth whitening. The skilled dental team at Eriks Dental Group in Boynton Beach can help you achieve a smile that makes you feel confident. Using the latest technology available, our in-office whitening procedure is proven to be effective at lightening teeth by several shades.
To find out if you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening, or to ask about our additional dental services, call today 561-733-4004.