If you’ve got an upcoming wedding, graduation, or any other type of special event on the horizon, you might be thinking about how to look your absolute best for it. One thing on your mind might be your smile; after all, it’s often the first feature that people notice about you! And one way to ensure that your pearly whites catch the attention of everyone is by seeking teeth whitening treatment before your event. But when is the best time to whiten prior to a special gathering? Keep reading to learn more!
How Can I Whiten My Teeth?
Most dentists generally offer two primary means of teeth whitening: in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits. Here’s a little more about each:
- In-office whitening – Dentists have access to special tools and professional grade whitening agents that can quickly and effectively whiten your teeth. This process usually only takes a single appointment, with the results being fully visible within a week or two.
- At-home whitening kits – Your dentist can also send you home with a kit that contains everything you’ll need to whiten your smile on your own schedule. That said, you don’t sacrifice any of the quality when opting for this method; though it will take longer than in-office whitening, it’s more convenient and still just as effective.
Store-bought whitening products are also an option, but it’s worth mentioning that with these products, you often get what you pay for. Many patients report lackluster or even worsened results when relying on them! It’s always best to visit your dentist for safe, effective teeth whitening treatment.
When Should I Begin Whitening Treatment Before an Event?
Most whitening treatments have timelines that vary from a few days to a couple of weeks, meaning that your smile won’t be immediately brightened and will need a little time for the results to fully manifest. However, with proper care these results will last for a few months to a few years. In any case, planning ahead is key!
In-office whitening usually takes one brief appointment to complete, but the results can sometimes take up to two weeks to kick in. And with take-home kits, you have a little more flexibility since you’re working on your own schedule; but you can still expect to need a week or two. Ideally, you should aim to whiten your teeth a few weeks prior to your event to ensure that your results are visible and impressive!
How Can I Keep My Results Intact?
Once you’ve had your smile brightened, it falls on you to keep your results intact before your event! Here are some tips to help you out:
- Avoid foods and drinks that are notorious for causing stained teeth such as coffee, red sauces and wines, berries, and more.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products.
- Brush and floss your teeth every single day.
If you’re hoping to have a whiter and brighter smile in time for your upcoming big event, don’t hesitate to contact your cosmetic dentist to inquire about teeth whitening; it’s a surefire way to have your pearly whites looking camera-ready!
About the Author
Dr. Katherine Parét received her dental doctorate from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has proudly served patients and families in the South Portland, ME community for several years. Her practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatment options including teeth whitening. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone: (207) 200-4106.