If you’ve got a major event coming up such as a wedding, graduation, job interview, presentation, or photo session, you may be concerned about the appearance of your smile. If your teeth are discolored or stained, it can make social events a little awkward. After all, hiding your emotions or covering your mouth is easier said than done, and dingy teeth are the last thing you should be worried about on your special day. Thankfully, teeth whitening can help but knowing which type of treatment and when to get started can be a little confusing. Here’s your guide to getting the gleaming grin you want in time for your big event!
Over-The-Counter Whitestrips
Supermarkets and big box stores are full of OTC whitening products that promise big results for a minimal investment (from $20 to $60). Unfortunately, however, to see any results you’ll need to wait about two weeks, and these still may not be satisfactory. In fact, because they use a diluted concentration of active ingredients, it could be several months before you get close to achieving your smile goals, and at that point you will have spent a lot of time and money. Worse yet, thanks to the prolonged exposure to whitening chemicals, your teeth may be very sensitive.
Over-The-Counter Gel
Gels are a bit stronger than strips, however they are a bit more expensive (typically around $100). They also take about two weeks to deliver results, but because they are more costly they can go from affordable to breaking the bank before you know it. Worse yet, because they still don’t have very high levels of active ingredients, it could still take several months to achieve your desired results, so be sure to get started at least two months before your big day.
Professional In-Office Whitening
Opalescence professional whitening is available only from your dentist. Unlike OTC treatments, it can be done in-office, and you can expect to lift around eight shades of discoloration in just one treatment that lasts about an hour. This treatment is perfect if you don’t have months to invest in treatment but want noticeable results that can last up to three years. Furthermore, because you’ll only need one treatment, your teeth won’t experience the prolonged sensitivity that they might with OTC products. It is recommended that you schedule your Opalescence treatment about 2 weeks before your event. This will give your teeth a chance to stop experiencing sensitivity so you can enjoy yourself on your big day.
Professional Take-Home Whitening
For those who would prefer to whiten their teeth at home, Opalescence also offers take-home kits available from your dentist. These include custom trays to help keep your whitening ingredients in place during treatment, as well as enough activator gel to achieve your desired results. These kits take about two weeks to work, and you can purchase more gel from your dentist if you ever need a touch up. For the best results, begin this treatment about four weeks prior to your special day.
Once You’ve Achieved Your Goals…
While it may seem like you should wait until closer to your event date to whiten your teeth, the truth is that you should always build in some time to help move past the sensitive stage. As long as you take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly and eating a non-staining diet, your results should last for years to come. A general rule of thumb is that if your food or beverage would stain a white shirt, it will likely stain your teeth, so be sure to avoid consuming anything too dark or pigmented. If you do indulge, alternate with sips of water, and rinse your mouth well after.
Remember, whitening products can lift discoloration and stains from your teeth, but if you’re looking for results by a special date, be sure to begin treatment far enough in advance. Professional whitening provides much better results in less time, eliminating frustration, extra cost, and prolonged sensitivity. Don’t waste time and money on OTC products that don’t deliver. Speak to your dentist about professional whitening today.
About Our Practice
At Transforming Smiles, we want to make your teeth happy! Whether you need an exam and cleaning, a restorative procedure, or a professional whitening treatment, our team of skilled dentists understand that when you’re proud of your smile, it affects more than just your oral health.
With Opalescence, there’s no need to hide from stains and discoloration. To schedule a consultation for this fast, effective treatment, schedule a professional whitening consultation by visiting our website or calling us at 770-995-7616.