Do you have an upcoming wedding or special event and want to look your best? Have you noticed your teeth are stained or discolored, and you don’t like what you see when you look in the mirror? Do you regularly drink coffee or tea?
If so, you may want to consider our teeth whitening services. We offer several ways to whiten and brighten your smile, but just how long does teeth whitening really last?
What Causes Tooth Stains?
Two kinds of tooth stains can make your teeth look dull and discolored:
- Surface stains — These stains are caused by foods, drinks, and tobacco that accumulate on your tooth’s surfaces. Things like coffee, tea, red wine, dark sauces, and smoking can lead to surface stains.
- Intrinsic stains — These stains occur when the inner dentin layer of your tooth becomes discolored. If you take certain medications, have experienced a mouth injury, or you’re just getting older, your enamel can get thinner and expose the dentin layer.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Our dental office offers both in-office and take-home whitening treatments. Both are effective ways to whiten your teeth, and most patients enjoy results for several months or more, depending on several factors:
- Lifestyle habits — If you practice good oral hygiene and avoid staining foods and drinks, your results can last longer.
- Straws and water — Using a straw and rinsing your mouth with water throughout the day can help you keep your teeth looking their best.
- Follow-up care — It’s essential to visit your Missoula dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning to keep your teeth looking their best.
- Touch-up treatments — To maintain your results for as long as possible, talk to your dentist about how and when to use your remaining gel for touch-ups or when to visit for a touch-up appointment.
Want to Learn More About Teeth Whitening in Missoula, MT?
If you’d like to schedule a cosmetic consultation with our dental team, we’d love to hear from you! At Nelson Dentistry, we’ll listen to your smile goals and tailor a treatment plan suited to your budget and timeline.
To get started, please reach out to us by calling (406) 542-3305.