Having a healthy set of teeth is priceless but so is being able to embrace a smile that looks stunningly beautiful. When preparing for a big event, like a wedding or reunion, having whiter teeth can make a difference when it comes to taking photos or making a good impression. Fortunately, seeing a cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening is well within reach. But how early should a person begin treatment to ensure a brighter smile for the big day? Keep reading to find out.
Projected Timeline: When Should You Start Whitening Treatment?
If a dentist only offers take-home whitening kits, you can expect to need at least two weeks to see noticeable results. But you’ll need more time than that to achieve the look you desire.
The reason is that most take-home whitening products include customizable trays, which are crafted using impressions taken of your smile. Since these images are sent to a dental lab for fabrication, you will need to consider the time it will take for them to be created and returned to your dentist’s office.
This is why you will likely want to start the process at least a few months (2-3) before your big event. Not only will you get appropriately designed trays, but you’ll also achieve beautiful results in plenty of time. Should you experience any side effects from treatment (i.e., minor tooth sensitivity), you can expect them to dissipate before you show off your smile.
Ways to Make Whitening Results Last
Many patients worry that starting too early will lead to lackluster results on the big day, but the good news is that you can do things to minimize the chances of stains and discoloration during this time. They include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing between your teeth at least once a day to remove harmful bacteria and plaque
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Limiting or avoiding darkly pigmented foods and beverages, like coffee, tea, soda, red wine, berries, ketchup, soy sauce, etc.
- Seeking follow-up treatment from your cosmetic dentist should you notice any problem areas
- Eating healthy, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables as well as calcium-enriched foods
By starting early with your whitening treatment, you can prepare to make a statement with your smile, no matter the kind of event you have coming up.
About Grand Dental – Sycamore
At Grand Dental – Sycamore, our cosmetic dentists are here to produce more vibrant smiles by concealing stains, chips, cracks, gaps, and more. When seeking to whiten your teeth for a big event, we can provide take-home whitening kits that target stubborn discoloration and leave you with a brighter set of teeth after just two weeks. Visit our website to find out when you should begin treatment to achieve the kind of smile you truly desire.