Professional teeth whitening treatments are popular as they dramatically transform your smile. They can restore the brightness and whiteness of your smile. Discoloration and stains are common. However, they can make your smile look less appealing. The natural wear and tear of daily life and aging can cause discoloration. You may wonder, is teeth whitening suitable for older adults? Below, you will find more information about teeth whitening and who is a good candidate for treatment. Particularly, is teeth whitening suitable for older adults?
Is Teeth Whitening Suitable for Older Adults?
Age is not a barrier to teeth whitening as it is suitable for adults of all ages. However, teeth whitening is best if it’s done by a dental professional. The dentist can determine if a patient is a good candidate for teeth whitening. This involves assessing your oral health, the condition of your teeth and gums, and if you need any dental treatments before a whitening treatment. Some patients may need tooth decay removed or dental fillings to address cavities.
Additional considerations for older adults include any existing dental conditions, tooth sensitivity, and any past dental restorations. Things like crowns and veneers cannot be whitened, so it’s important to assess these to ensure your smile shade remains uniform. If you are an older adult and unhappy with the look of your smile, consider professional teeth whitening.
Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration occurs for a variety of reasons. Older adults may have more stains and discoloration due to the natural wear and tear that comes with life. Consider the following common causes of tooth discoloration.
Natural Aging:
The natural wear and tear that comes with life can cause discoloration. Maintaining a healthy oral care routine and visiting the dentist regularly can be helpful. However, a whitening treatment can take your smile to the next level.
Smoking:
Using tobacco products can negatively impact the look of your smile. Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause stains and impact your oral health. Avoid using tobacco products due to the impact it can have on the health and aesthetics of your smile.
Diet:
Consuming food and drinks that are filled with sugar or highly processed can break down the enamel of your teeth. This can lead to stains and discoloration. Avoid candy, pastries, soda, juice, and highly processed foods to ensure your smile stays white. If you eat these foods in moderation, rinse your mouth with water right after you consume them. Then, brush your teeth 30 minutes later to reduce the impact certain foods can have on your oral health.
Poor Oral Hygiene:
A healthy oral care routine is necessary every day. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition to brushing, floss at least twice a day. Your daily oral care routine is important, but you also need to visit the dentist regularly. Regular checkups at least every six months are critical for your overall oral health.
Teeth Whitening Treatment
Professional teeth whitening treatments dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. They can make your smile look brighter and whiter in just one session. Each patient’s whitening treatment plan is uniquely different. Depending on your desired shade goal, you may need multiple treatment sessions. However, you will notice the results right away.
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that is fast and smooth. You are often in and out of the office within just one hour. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your teeth after treatment. It’s important to follow these to ensure your results last. Contact the team at Smiles of La Mesa today to schedule your next teeth whitening treatment!
