Need some tips on getting a brighter smile with teeth whitening? Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing want to help! Chartrand Orthodontics makes a point to stay on top of the latest teeth-whitening technology. If we find something that will make your whitening treatment faster, better, or last longer, you’ll know about it. Do you know what options we offer? There are several ways for folks in Omaha to whiten their teeth. Let’s look at some easy and practical tips for teeth whitening.
Professional Whitening
Your absolute best teeth whitening options are those done by professionals like Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing. Our Omaha team has the expertise and knowledge to give you results you won’t get from run-of-the-mill retail products.
In-Office Treatments
In-office teeth whitening treatments at Chartrand Orthodontics offer the most visible results. How do they work? A team member applies a potent bleaching agent to your teeth during the procedure. It’s often enhanced with a special light or laser. The biggest perk of in-office whitening treatments? They can make your teeth several shades whiter in just one visit.
At-Home Whitening Kits
Maybe you need a more convenient teeth-whitening option in Omaha. At-home whitening kits are popular if you’re looking to brighten your smile without visiting our office. They’re easy to use and more affordable than professional treatments. At-home kits usually come in two varieties: whitening strips and whitening trays.
Whitening Strips
You’ve probably heard about whitening strips. They’re thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide-based gel. You apply them directly to your teeth and leave them on for about 30 minutes. Use them once or twice daily. They’re easy to use and can lighten your teeth by a few shades in a few weeks. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid gum irritation and uneven whitening.
Whitening Trays
Whitening trays are another awesome at-home option. These trays, filled with whitening gel, are worn over your teeth for a particular period of time—usually only a few hours a day. While some trays are one-size-fits-all, others can be molded to better fit your teeth. They offer more coverage than strips and can produce noticeable results in a few weeks.
Whitening Toothpaste
Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing will tell you that whitening toothpaste is a simple way to gradually brighten your smile. Unlike other whitening products, these toothpastes don’t contain bleaching agents. Instead, they use mild abrasives and special chemicals to remove surface stains from foods and drinks. Some also contain low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to help with the whitening process.
Using whitening toothpaste is straightforward: Replace your regular toothpaste with it and brush your teeth twice daily. You should start seeing results in just a few weeks. It’s an excellent option for maintaining the results of other whitening treatments or for those who want to avoid the hassle of strips or trays.
Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
Keeping your smile bright after whitening takes a bit of effort. Good oral hygiene, mindful eating habits, and lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Here are some tips from our Chartrand Orthodontics team to help you maintain your newly whitened teeth.
Good Oral Hygiene Practices
Brush your teeth twice every day. For the best results, use fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget about floss! Floss daily to keep plaque and food particles at bay. Regular dental checkups are also crucial for keeping your teeth clean and healthy. Consider using a whitening toothpaste a couple of times a week. Consistent oral hygiene keeps your teeth white and prevents cavities and gum disease.
Dietary Tips
Did you know that there are certain foods and drinks can stain your teeth? It’s best to limit them. Avoid or reduce coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries. When you consume these, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables. Look for apples, carrots, and celery. They can help clean your teeth naturally and promote saliva production. Believe it or not, your saliva protects against stains.
Lifestyle Changes
Smoking (including vaping) and tobacco use are significant culprits of teeth staining. Cutting back or quitting these habits can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth. Using a straw when drinking can also help minimize contact with your teeth. Additionally, stay hydrated, as water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Water keeps your mouth clean and reduces your risk of stains.
Dealing with Sensitivity
As Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing will tell you, tooth sensitivity remains a common side effect of teeth whitening. If you experience sensitivity, use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain potassium nitrate and fluoride, which help soothe and protect your teeth.
When whitening, follow the product instructions carefully and avoid overusing whitening products. Overuse can make your sensitivity feel even worse. If your teeth become too sensitive, it can also help to take a break from whitening treatments. Switching to a softer-bristled toothbrush can also reduce irritation.
Stay away from extremely hot or cold foods and drinks during whitening. Our team can provide treatments to strengthen your enamel and suggest alternative whitening methods. Taking these precautions allows you to manage sensitivity and still achieve a brighter smile without discomfort.
Teeth Whitening in Omaha
While it’s possible to whiten your teeth at home, getting it done at Chartrand Orthodontics will give you the smile you deserve. Go here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chartrand or Dr. Tussing in Omaha today.
