Teeth Whitening for Smokers
Many people complain that they are dissatisfied with their smile, and it is common for tooth discoloration and dental stains to be the reason why. The teeth are regularly exposed to deeply pigmented foods and beverages that can cause discoloration. Habits like smoking only make the likelihood of dental stains even greater.
Smoking stains are not easily brushed away with whitening toothpastes, but they will respond to teeth whitening treatment. Professional teeth whitening lifts stains and brightens the teeth by up to 12 shades. Here, cosmetic dentist Tim Simpson discusses how teeth whitening for smokers can give our Abilene, TX, patients the bright, white smile they desire.
Teeth Whitening Treatment
Teeth whitening treatment is one of the fastest and most effective ways to improve a smile that has been compromised by smoking. Nicotine is a colorless substance, but when it combines with oxygen, it turns yellow. This, along with the brown color that comes from tobacco, can leave behind unsightly stains and discoloration on the teeth.
Professional teeth whitening breaks away smoker stains and improves the overall color of the teeth in an hour or less. Dr. Simpson offers several different whitening systems at our practice. Each system involves the application of a bleaching agent to the teeth, and then exposing the teeth to a special light that activates the bleaching ingredients. Within 30 minutes of treatment, we can lift stains off of our patient’s teeth, and brighten the smile by seven shades. If smoking has left the teeth especially damaged, we can extend treatment to 60 minutes, in which case we can brighten the teeth by up to 12 shades.
Teeth whitening treatment offers instant results, and it is extremely safe for our Abilene patients. We can even offer treatment that includes a desensitizing agent that minimizes bleaching sensitivity, making treatment virtually free of discomfort or side effects.
How Effective Is Teeth Whitening for Smokers?
Smoking stains are extrinsic in nature, meaning they affect the outer layer of the teeth, so professional teeth whitening is extremely effective in treating this type of discoloration. However, it is important that patients understand that whitening results are not permanent. New stains will develop over time, especially if the patient continues to smoke. A person’s oral habits will determine how long the effects of teeth whitening treatment last.
Prolonging Treatment Results
The best way for smokers to prolong the results of teeth whitening treatment is to give up this unhealthy habit. Of course, we understand that is not easy, even if a person has the best intentions. By practicing a few simple habits, out Abilene patients can get the most out of their teeth whitening results:
- Try to avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after teeth whitening treatment
- Brush the teeth or rinse the mouth after smoking
- Brush at least twice a day and floss daily
- Schedule bi-annual dental exams and cleanings
- Consider maintenance treatments with take-home whitening trays
Learn More
You do not have to let smoking stains affect the appearance of your smile. To learn how professional teeth whitening can give you the bright smile you desire, send us a message online, or call (325) 677-6553 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tim Simpson.