With the spring season here, there are a host of events taking place. Maybe you’re preparing for a wedding, job interview or reunion and desire to display an “award-winning” smile. If you’re considering teeth whitening, you may be wondering, “how close to an event should I whiten?” Keep reading to get the answer!
The Best Time to Get Your Teeth Whitened
When it comes to whitening your teeth before an event, what’s most important is to plan in advance. Therefore, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to achieve your desired results. If you’re using an over-the-counter product, you should start the whitening process around two months before your big event. This will allow time for the whitening agents to work and to make any necessary adjustments.
If you’re receiving professional teeth whitening, you typically don’t need as much lead time. You can start the treatment process around two weeks before the event.
Considering Your Whitening Options
Without question, you’ll see the greatest results from having your teeth professionally whitened. Whether you choose the in-office or take-home route, you can look forward to big changes in the appearance of your smile, leaving you feeling like a million dollars when it’s time to put your ivories on display.
The following explains how the two treatment options work:
- In-Office Whitening – The dentist will apply a small amount of high-powered bleaching gel to each of the visible teeth. Then, using a special lamp, he or she will activate the whitening agents, leaving you with a brighter smile in just an hour’s time.
- Take-Home Whitening – The take-home kit you get from your dentist is light years ahead of what you could purchase from your local retailer. Instead of inferior products, the professional kit contains the same bleaching gel that would be used at the dentist’s office, along with a set of custom trays that allow for safe application.
How to Maintain Your Results
So you’ve had your teeth whitened with plenty of time to spare before the big day. How are you to maintain your results? For starters, you’ll need to practice excellent oral hygiene, which should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day.
It’s equally important to avoid any tobacco usage, as the toxins released from smoking or chewing can ruin your smile. Additionally, you’ll want to monitor your consumption of darkly pigmented foods and beverages. That means you may want to rethink sipping that morning cup of coffee or glass of red wine in the evening.
By being proactive in your efforts and following the simple guidelines provided above, you’ll be able to bring your best smile to your event, take plenty of photos and have pleasant memories that will last for a lifetime!
About the Author
Dr. Publio Silfa earned his dental degree from the Columbia College of Dental Medicine. He has since remained an avid learner, taking several hours of continuing education. Dr. Silfa successfully fulfills the roles of technician and artisan to create beautiful smiles with teeth whitening at Meadowbrook Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.