Research has shown that people want a whiter smile. In fact, more than 80% of people ages 18 to 49 want to achieve a brighter and whiter smile. Discoloration occurs due to the natural aging process. In addition to aging, your diet and oral hygiene routine. An effective way to improve the look of your smile is through professional teeth whitening treatments. You may wonder, will teeth whitening work with dental fillings? Below, you will find helpful information about both dental treatments.

Will teeth whitening work with dental fillings?

Teeth whitening can dramatically improve the look of your smile. It can also boost your confidence. Teeth whitening uses bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, to remove stains. This results in a whiter and brighter appearance. Dental fillings cannot be whitened as they are not porous in the way natural teeth are. Dental fillings are made with materials, such as composite resin, that are hardened and then polished. They are designed to be stable and resistant as they replace the decayed portion of your tooth that has been removed.

Teeth Whitening Before Dental Fillings

For those who need to get dental fillings but still want white teeth, consult with your dentist. If possible, you can opt to get a whitening treatment before your dental fillings. This can allow you to achieve your desired shade. Once you have had your teeth whitened, you can get a dental filling and they can be shade-matched to your whitened shade. It’s important to consult with your dentist about your desire to whiten your teeth. In many cases you may be able to do this, However, severe decay may require prompt treatment.

Maintaining Your Smile

Keeping your smile both white and healthy takes effort on a daily basis. Consider the following tips to maintain the appearance and health of your smile.

Regular Dental Visits:

Regular dental visits are a key part of maintaining your oral health. You should visit the dentist at least every six months. For some people, more frequent visits may be necessary. This includes those who have a history of tooth decay or gum disease. Visits every three months may be necessary. Talk with your dentist about when and how often you should visit the dentist.

Daily Oral Care Routine:

Your daily oral care routine is a critical part of your oral health. In fact, your oral health is directly related to your overall health. This means that maintaining a consistent daily oral care routine is directly related to your overall long-term health. A healthy oral care routine involves brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is advisable to rinse with water right after you eat and brush 30 minutes after your enamel. This can help protect your enamel. In addition to brushing, you should floss at least once a day. Flossing is beneficial as it can remove food from the hard-to-reach places in between your teeth.

Avoid Smoking:

Harmful habits can impact the health of your teeth and gums. They can also impact the strength of your gums. Smoking and using tobacco products can negatively impact your oral health and cause discoloration. Avoid smoking or using chewing tobacco to ensure your long-term oral health.

Avoid Teeth-Staining Foods:

Your diet can have a major impact on your oral health and the color of your teeth. It’s beneficial to eat a balanced diet and avoid teeth-staining foods. If you do, consume them in moderation. This includes foods that are high in sugar, including candy, pastries, sodas, and coffee. Highly processed goods can also have a negative impact on your oral health.