One of your most significant qualities is your smile; it has the power to uplift others and make an impact that lasts a lifetime. However, as time passes, our teeth can lose their luster and develop a yellowish colour, which can be unfavourable to our self-esteem. Many people consider “How long does it take for yellow teeth to turn white?” in their search for whiter teeth.
Understanding the causes of tooth discolouration and the treatment options that are available to get back your sparkling, self-assured smile is important before you go ahead and receive any particular dental service.
Let’s explore various treatment options for teeth whitening near you and the time frames to achieve a radiant, white smile.
Factors Affecting Tooth Discoloration
Understanding why teeth become discoloured in the first place is essential before diving into the treatment for whitening yellow teeth. Teeth can become discoloured or yellow due to a number of circumstances, including:
Diet: Dark-colored meals and drinks, including coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can eventually discolour teeth.
Tobacco Use: Teeth might get severely discoloured due to smoking or using tobacco products.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Insufficient brushing and flossing can result in plaque and tartar development, which can cause teeth to turn yellow.
Age: Our teeth’s enamel naturally thins with age, making the white dentin beneath more noticeable.
Genetics: Genetic factors can cause some people to have teeth that are more yellow than others.
Medications: As a side effect of several medications, teeth might become stained.
Trauma: The teeth may darken or become discoloured due to trauma.
Teeth Whitening Methods
There are several ways to whiten teeth, from over-the-counter medications to cosmetic dentistry treatments. Here are a few common options:
- Over-the-Counter Whitening Products: These include toothpaste, strips, and gels for teeth whitening. For visible outcomes, they often need to be used consistently over several weeks.
- Professional Dental Whitening: Dentists can offer in-office teeth whitening in NW Calgary that, with just one or two sessions, can produce remarkable effects.
- At-Home Custom Trays: Additionally, dentists can create customized trays for at-home whitening. Usually, results can be seen after a few weeks.
- Whitening Pens: These pens are easy to use and, with consistent usage, can provide noticeable results in a matter of weeks.
- Natural Remedies: Natural remedies like hydrogen peroxide and baking soda are used by some people. Results might vary and take a few weeks.
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Yellow Teeth?
The approximate amount of time it takes to whiten discoloured teeth can vary depending on a number of factors, including the extent of the staining, the teeth whitening technique used, and your dedication to maintaining excellent dental hygiene. Here are some popular techniques to achieve whiter teeth, along with an estimation of their effectiveness:
Over-the-counter (OTC) Whitening Products
OTC whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels may take several weeks to months to deliver noticeable results. These products typically contain lower levels of whitening agents.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Dentist-performed in-office teeth whitening services can produce significant results in just one session, which normally lasts 60-90 minutes. Deep stains, on the other hand, may necessitate multiple sessions.
Take-Home Whitening Kits
Dentists may offer patients personalized whitening trays and high-quality whitening gel for at-home application. Depending on the frequency of use, results might be visible anywhere between a few days to several weeks.
Lifestyle Changes
The colour of your teeth can be gradually improved over time by reducing stains-causing foods and beverages, preventing smoking, and maintaining proper dental care.
Veneers and Crowns
Veneers or crowns are often recommended for teeth that have become severely stained or that are unresponsive to other whitening methods. Both quick and long-lasting outcomes can be achieved with these alternatives.
It’s essential to keep in mind that teeth-whitening effects are temporary and may need touch-ups to maintain the perfect shade. Additionally, individual outcomes might differ, so it’s advisable to consult with a dentist to determine the approach that will work best for your specific needs.
Preventing Yellow Teeth
Keeping white, healthy teeth is essential for keeping your smile bright. A variety of factors, including diet, lifestyle, and genetics, can cause teeth yellowing. Fortunately, there are a number of easy ways to avoid yellow teeth and preserve your smile:
Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- As part of your oral care routine, consider using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash.
- To avoid abrasive damage to your enamel, brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Watch Your Diet
- Limit your intake of foods and beverages that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and highly pigmented berries.
- Drink staining liquids through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
- After consuming staining foods or beverages, rinse your mouth with water.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a leading cause of tooth yellowing due to the tar and nicotine in tobacco products. Smoking cessation can help to prevent further discoloration.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water assists in the removal of food particles and the prevention of tooth staining.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum, especially after meals, stimulates saliva production, which can aid in acid neutralization and tooth enamel protection.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular check-ups and professional cleanings should be scheduled with your dentist in NW Calgary. Professional cleanings can get rid of tough stains and plaque that cause yellowing.
Consider Whitening Toothpaste
Use whitening toothpaste that has been approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). These toothpastes can aid in the removal of surface stains.
Dental Sealants
Consult with your dentist about dental sealants, which can provide an extra layer of stain protection.
Moderate Use of Whitening Products
To avoid enamel damage, if you choose to use over-the-counter whitening products or professional whitening treatments, follow the instructions carefully and avoid excessive use.
Protect Your Teeth from Injury
Wear a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports to prevent discoloured teeth from trauma.
Consider Cosmetic Dentistry
If your teeth are severely discoloured, consult with a cosmetic dentist about more permanent options such as veneers or bonding.
Experience Your Brightest and Healthiest Smile With Us
At Valley Ridge Dental Centre, we encourage you to take advantage of our quality teeth-whitening services to reveal the whitest, healthiest version of your smile. Our skilled team of dentists near you is committed to assisting you in achieving the brilliant, self-assured smile you deserve. With our modern techniques and individualized approach, we ensure safe whitening treatments that will leave you with a visibly radiant smile.
Call us today!