Teeth whitening tips: removing stains and lightening

Teeth whitening is a fast-growing cosmetic trend that appeals to both genders of all ages. Once reserved for celebrities or special events like a beauty pageant, brightening your smile is now accessible to the masses through dental visits or over the counter dental aids.

Always check with your dentist before trying any new oral treatments. With that in mind, here are a few suggestions:

1. The dentist or an assistant can provide a whitening treatment in the office. Ask about the time that will be needed, the cost per visit, how long the effects will last, any possible side effects, and follow-up care that may be needed. It is unlikely your insurance will cover this treatment, but ask before scheduling a visit. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before going to a whitening treatment.

2. There is more than one way to whiten your teeth. At the dentist's office, you may have a small tray attached to your mouth with a bleaching solution in which your teeth will soak for a set period of time. Sometimes a preparatory solution is applied first. The dentist will try to match the degree of whiteness to your best natural look without making an extreme change to your appearance.

3. If you opt for a drugstore kit, read the directions for each one carefully. Some may need to work overnight, while others could require an hour or so of your time. Plan to handle this procedure during the part of your day when you're least likely to be bothered or interrupted. Read the instructions carefully to be sure you understand what to do. When in doubt, call the toll-free number that should be listed with the instructions.

4. Avoid drinking beverages or eating foods that can stain the enamel on your teeth. These include tea and coffee (with tannic acid), blueberries, and other very dark or deeply-colored foods that can penetrate the outer layer of your teeth. When you do have these items, rinse your mouth immediately afterward if you are unable to get to the restroom to brush your teeth. You may want to carry a small travel toothbrush and toothpaste to remove potential stains in the bathroom after eating.

5. After having your teeth whitened, watch for signs of sensitivity or irritation. Redness, swelling, or small sores could indicate a possible allergy to the substance used, meaning you should avoid it next time, along with other products that use the same ingredients. If you're not sure what these might be, check with your dentist. Plan to have your teeth whitened every few months or so if you want to keep up your new, attractive look.

Remember, white teeth are sexy teeth. Everyone enjoys a bright smile untarnished by years of tobacco use or poor hygiene. If you don't change these habits, the stains will begin to accumulate again. Develop a good dental hygiene plan if you don’t already have one to make your teeth last longer and stay healthy with a reduced risk of cavities, gingivitis, or other oral complications that no degree of whiteness can fix.