If you’ve been considering teeth whitening, you probably have a lot of questions. Why do teeth get discolored in the first place? How can you determine if you’re a candidate for teeth whitening? How can teeth stay white after professional treatment?

We have great news - we have answers to all of those questions! Read below to learn more about this topic and to discover if you might be a candidate for getting a professionally brighter and whiter smile.

Why do teeth discolor?

Before we discuss tooth whitening, it’s important to address why teeth end up discolored in the first place. As we go through life, regular wear and tear naturally dulls our teeth. The process is impossible to avoid completely. However, there are some habits - like smoking - that can speed it up. Your diet also plays a role in how quickly and how badly your teeth discolor; for instance, red wine, coffee and tea, and certain berries can all stain teeth. Not brushing frequently enough will also lead to teeth that aren’t as bright and white as they could be. And finally, certain medications can also lead to tooth discoloration.

Who is a good candidate for professional teeth whitening?

Lots of people are great candidates for having their teeth whitened! Generally, what’s required is that you have healthy, unrestored teeth and healthy gums. We also recommend that patients be over the age of 16. Finally, we require that patients have a full dental checkup and cleaning before discussing teeth whitening - this way, the dentist can catch any issues that should be addressed before teeth whitening, like cavities or gum disease.

How can teeth stay white after treatment?

Once you’ve had your teeth professionally whitened, you’ll want them to stay that way for a long time! While it’s impossible to keep your teeth pristine forever, there are a few steps you can take to keep that bright, healthy smile and make the time between treatments as long as possible:

• Stop smoking. Smoking is a huge reason why teeth become discolored in the first place. Kicking the habit will not only help you live a healthier life - you’ll also keep that smile brighter, longer.
• Consider changing your diet. Since your diet can play a large role in the color of your teeth, it might be wise to cut back or cut out problematic foods like coffee, tea, and red wine. Of course, some foods that stain your teeth can be good for you in other ways, so carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making any final decisions.
• Consider changing your medications. This one is tricky and should obviously only be done in consultation with your doctor. But if your medications are staining your teeth, and if having a brilliant smile is important to you, it’s worth asking your doctor if there might be alternatives available.
• Brush, floss, and see the dentist regularly! The cleaner and healthier your teeth are, the better they’ll look! Make sure you’re brushing thoroughly twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing the dentist every six months for optimal oral health.

If you’re considered teeth whitening, remember that the team at Glenville Smiles is here to help! We regularly give patients in Schenectady, NY and the surrounding areas plenty of reason to smile. Call us today to get started.