Simple Ways to Keep Your Teeth Brighter for Longer

There are few aesthetic treatments that are more popular, or more impactful, than professional teeth whitening. Not only does a teeth whitening session at your local Essex dentist leave patients with gleaming teeth, but it also restores confidence in their smiles and can have a positive impact on self-esteem.

The fact is that, even with the best and most comprehensive approach to dental hygiene and regular cleaning, over time, teeth start to lose their shine. Discolouration as a result of ageing, consuming certain foods and drinks, and general lifestyle choices all mean that teeth whitening is a coveted and highly effective treatment.

But what happens after the treatment, when patients are left to manage their own aftercare? Is there anything individuals can do to prolong the effects of their whitening treatment?

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Treatment Last For?

Teeth whitening is one of those treatments that can be conducted at home using high street and over-the-counter products, but the results simply aren’t as effective or as long-lasting.

Professional teeth whitening gel starts to act quickly, with optimum results evident after 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of discolouration at the start of treatment. Far from the simple whitening toothpastes and weak bleaching products of high street stores, professional whitening sees patients fitted with a custom-made mould and given a whitening kit to coat the teeth. This whitening kit, using active ingredients and an effective bleaching agent, changes the internal colour of teeth as well as removing surface stains.

Results can be kept at their best for a long time, with regular top-ups every two months or so.

How to Keep Whitened Teeth Gleaming

With the process of professional teeth whitening made easy for patients, how important is aftercare and at-home routine?

There are some products that cause the teeth to stain, regardless of whitening. Coffee, red wine, and even some curries and certain spices are all prolific tooth-staining treats, with patients needing to minimise their consumption or else clean teeth directly after, where possible.

Smoking also affects the longevity of whitening results, with patients encouraged to use a top-up bleach for certain occasions and special events, boosting their smile radiance.

What to Expect from Teeth Whitening and How to Book Your Appointment

All in all, teeth whitening, when conducted by a professional dentist, is an effective solution that counters discolouration, tackles stains, and leaves you with a smile to be proud of. Armed with the right aftercare (and a top-up kit for special occasions), it couldn’t be easier to ensure your smile always looks its best.

At Essex Smile Centre, we work with patients to identify the parts of their smile they would like to improve, with teeth whitening almost always coming out on top. Book an appointment to discuss whitening and if it could be a good fit for you, today.