Weddings are all about smiles, with everyone wanting the confidence to show their teeth
Make sure your wedding smile is perfect, even when your budget doesn't run to the full cosmetic dentist treatment. Teeth whitening procedures however are a must for everyone, whatever your budgets, to get rid of staining that dulls any smile.
The most effective bleaching is done once a year in a dentist’s office. The dentist paints your teeth with a hydrogen peroxide solution, and then uses a high-intensity light to activate the gel’s whitening effects. This takes about one hour, with a recommend to have this treatment 2-3 weeks before the wedding in case of any sensitivity.
At-home bleachIng trays
Your dentist can make custom-fitted bleaching trays to be used at home to gradually whiten over about 10 days. The take-home bleach is weaker than those bleaches used by your dentist, and should be used 2-3 weeks before the wedding, then once a month for maintenance.
At-home bleachIng strIps
Bleaching strips are a great choice for those on a budget. Combined with daily use of a whitening toothpaste, they are a good one-two times course to improve the whiteness and give a fresher, cleaner look.
Regardless of your whitening method, here are a few must-know tips:
Maintenance: Post treatment, pores in tooth enamel are still open, so be extra vigilant about food during that first week. Coffee, tea, red wine, spicy foods will all stain. To find which foods and drinks will colour your teeth, think 'wedding dress'. Whatever would stain your dress and be difficult to remove, will stain your teeth, leaving discolouration.
Try raw crunchy vegetables like celery or carrots, as these help to mechanically remove surface stains, as does sugarless gum.
Sensitivity: Teeth whitening is generally not at all painful. However, some people do experience sensitivity, usually when drinking cold liquids. So be prepared for a little discomfort, but if the discomfort isn't bearable, discontinue treatment and have a chat with your dentist about any alternatives.
TIP: Before you leave for the wedding, brush your teeth gently with a little baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to remove surface stains and the effect possibly of a glass of Champagne. Always rinse well though with plenty of warm water afterwards. For brides, check the mirror for soda residue in the corners of your mouth, then use the opportunity to check for lipstick on your teeth. Smile at yourself one last time, because all smiles from here on in are for your partner and guests.