Goldilocks and Teeth Whitening: Getting the Timing Just Right

In the classic children’s story, Goldilocks samples all three porridges, looking for the one that’s “just right.” Baby Bear’s porridge was the perfect temperature at just the right time. Timing your teeth whitening treatment before a special event, such as a wedding, reunion, and the like, can be similarly delicate. You have to time it well to reap the most dazzling smile when you need and want it most.

Below you’ll find an explanation of why timing matters for teeth whitening and when you should start whitening for a special event so that you can look and feel your best.

Too Early

Although the results of professional teeth whitening can last up to two or three years, you probably don’t want to whiten your smile more than six months in advance of the special event. Staining foods and drinks can subtly take away the luster and brilliance of your teeth over time, and starting treatment too far ahead of time will deprive you of having peak whiteness for the special event.

Too Late

On the other hand, you definitely do not want to wait too long to address your tooth discoloration. Many dentists offer two ways of whitening: with in-office treatment or take-home kits. The in-office treatment is usually completed in just one appointment that lasts about an hour. In contrast, the take-home kits require about two weeks of daily treatment, but this option still results in about eight to ten shades of a brighter white.

In either treatment option, you must meet with your dentist and schedule treatment. It’s not something you can do immediately beforehand. In fact, if you put off this appointment until just a couple of weeks before your special event, you may not have time to complete treatment.

Just Right

The Goldilocks timing for whitening your teeth is somewhere in the middle. You should schedule your consultation with your dentist at least a couple of months before your event. This timeframe will allow you to meet with your dentist, choose the method of whitening you want, and complete treatment with some breathing room.

Ultimately, it’s important to give yourself enough time to brighten your smile, but you don’t have to plan six months or more in advance. Your dentist can also help you figure out the right time to whiten your teeth so that you’ll have the most brilliant results and a smile that truly shines no matter what event it is.

About the Author

Dr. Bradford Plasha owns and operates The Dental Spot in Collegeville, PA. After earning his dental degree from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, he has built on his knowledge and skills through advanced training in procedures, both simple and complex. He finds great satisfaction in helping patients achieve their goals, which is why he offers both in-office and take-home whitening. If you are interested in professional whitening services, reach out online to The Dental Spot or call the office at 484-854-6900.