You’ve just walked out of the dentist’s office after your professional whitening treatment, and your smile is dazzling. You invested time and resources into professional teeth whitening, and the result is worth every penny. But how do you maintain your beautiful new smile?
Maintaining your bright smile isn’t rocket science, but it does require a little commitment and knowledge. Let’s discuss some of the best practices for keeping your teeth white and bright between professional teeth whitening sessions.
Professional Teeth Whitening
First, let’s talk about professional teeth whitening. Professional whitening treatments differ from over-the-counter options you may find at your local pharmacy. Dentists use more advanced techniques and closely oversee your whitening to ensure you get a result that is far superior to whitening strips, whitening kits, or whitening toothpastes from the store. And because these products can be abrasive or cause tooth sensitivity, you should always talk to your dentist before using them.
With professional treatments, you can choose from in-office or at-home treatments, and whichever you choose, we are sure you will want to maintain those results as long as possible.
Maintaining Your Whiter Teeth
Keeping your teeth white is similar to keeping your teeth healthy. Here are our best tips and tricks for maintaining your bright new smile.
Follow Your Aftercare Instructions
Pay attention to your aftercare instructions during your whitening visits. If you choose a take-home treatment, be careful to follow instructions carefully. Listening to and following your care instructions when getting any cosmetic dentistry procedure is always a big part of getting the results you were hoping for.
Avoid Tooth-Staining Foods and Drinks
This might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s also the most effective one. Some foods and beverages are notorious for staining teeth, and you will want to avoid them. Problem foods include highly pigmented fruits and anything with dark sauces. As far as beverages, we are talking about juice, coffee, tea, and red wine. If you’re a fan of these, consider reducing your consumption or try drinking through a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
Water, Water, Water
After consuming foods that could stain your teeth, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with water. It helps wash away the staining agents, thus reducing the chance of discoloration. But water does more than just rinse away potential stains. It can also cleanse the teeth of food particles and debris, aiding in the prevention of tooth decay. In addition, healthy, hydrated gums can reduce your chances of gingivitis.
Stick to A Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Keeping your teeth white goes hand-in-hand with good oral hygiene. Brush for two full minutes (set a timer!) twice daily, floss regularly, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria that can cause plaque. Regular dental cleanings also play a vital role in maintaining your white smile. Your dentist can use special tools to polish the surfaces of your teeth, removing not only debris but also stains.
Quit Tobacco and Nicotine Products
If you’re a smoker, here’s another reason to quit: tobacco stains teeth. The nicotine found in tobacco products can dull your bright smile, making it harder to maintain the effects of professional teeth whitening. And don’t make the mistake of thinking that vaping is a better alternative. The additives in vaping ‘juice’ can also cause staining, as well as contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, quitting nicotine has numerous other health benefits.
Return for Maintenance Treatments
Whitening your teeth professionally is a fantastic way to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. However, it’s essential to remember that the results aren’t permanent. Even when you are diligent, whitening treatments may not last forever. Talk to us about when to get touchup treatments and how often to undergo whitening treatment.
If you are interested in investing in your smile and improving your confidence, why not schedule a professional teeth whitening session today?