Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you, and it can leave quite a lasting impression! That said, if you have a special event in the near future, like a wedding, graduation, or presentation, you might be wondering if receiving teeth whitening treatment beforehand can give your smile the boost it needs to impress everyone you encounter. It absolutely can – but you’ll still want to plan accordingly. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Consider Your Time Restraints
As incredible as teeth whitening is, it’s not exactly instantaneous. Often, your results will need a little time to fully manifest, whether you’ve opted for professional whitening or take-home kits. Generally, it takes about 14 days for your teeth to shine their brightest, so you’ll want to be sure you’re not waiting until right before your event to whiten your teeth. Otherwise, they won’t be as bright as they could be! By giving yourself a week or two to let your results surface, you’re setting yourself up for social success.
2. Know Your Budget
Many patients are tempted by store-bought whitening solutions, not just because of their accessibility but also their affordability. However, when it comes to these treatments, you get what you pay for – they are not able to deliver the same impressive results as the treatments provided by a dentist. Don’t trick yourself into thinking you can opt for cheap whitening treatments and acquire picturesque results. Be mindful of your budget and allocate things accordingly; whitening is well worth it, especially if your results last far beyond the event!
3. Maintain Your Results
After your teeth have been whitened, it falls on you to maintain your results – not just up until your special event, but beyond it! That said, here are some pointers to follow after you’ve had your smile whitened:
- Don’t neglect oral hygiene; whitened teeth are still vulnerable to decay and other issues.
- Avoid oral habits like smoking or using tobacco – these are sure ways to stain your teeth.
- Avoid foods and drinks that are known to cause dental staining, like soda, coffee, tea, red wines and sauces, berries, and more.
A bright and confident smile can make all the difference on that special day, and you should want to strive to look your best. That said, by timing your teeth whitening treatment correctly and taking care of your teeth, you can leave a lasting impression – and enjoy lasting results!
About the Practice
The talented team at Dentistry for Life has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in the Lancaster, PA community under the leadership of Dr. Jason T. Herres and Dr. Vincent P. Votilla. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’re curious about receiving teeth whitening before your next upcoming event, feel free to contact the team through their website or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (717) 569-3911.