Many people choose professional teeth whitening to improve the appearance of yellowed or stained teeth. Most people who undergo the procedure achieve the results they are looking for and later wonder when it is safe to have whitening again.
Though everyone needs it at different intervals, most individuals do not require professional teeth whitening frequently. How often you should undergo professional teeth whitening depends on factors such as your oral health, the type of whitening treatment used, and your lifestyle habits.
Most Patients Do Not Need Frequent Whitening
Most people need professional teeth whitening only once every year or two. However, some people can extend their whitening results by maintaining good oral hygiene and proper dental care, while others may require follow-up treatments as stains gradually return.
The frequency of teeth whitening procedures depends on an individual’s oral health status and not on any pre-planned schedule. Whitening your teeth too frequently may increase tooth sensitivity.
Your Daily Habits Affect the Results
How long your whitening results last depends largely on your everyday habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, and heavily pigmented food items may stain the tooth enamel. Smoking can stain the teeth and may cause you to need whitening treatments more frequently.
Maintaining good oral hygiene will help prolong the time before your stains return. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily help maintain your whitening results. Having a glass of water after eating food that causes stains is also a helpful measure.
Your Oral Health Matters
Healthy teeth and gums provide the best foundation for professional whitening. You need to address any cavities, gum problems, or damaged teeth before whitening, since this may cause you discomfort.
The dentist will examine your teeth before recommending any additional treatment. The examination will help you decide whether you need whitening or if you must do any other dental procedures first.
Know When It Is Time for Another Treatment
Rather than relying on the calendar, schedule whitening when your smile begins to lose its brightness. If stains become more noticeable or your smile no longer looks as bright as you would like, it may be time to schedule a consultation.
Your dentist will be able to tell you whether you need a professional whitening treatment or whether a quick touch-up will do the trick.
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Consultation
Teeth whitening can last longer when done at the right time and with good dental hygiene practices. Sima Dental is the right place to visit if you are ready to whiten your teeth or if you want to see whether you need to do whitening again. Call us at (281) 457-6444 to make your appointment.