Keeping Your Teeth White After Professional Whitening Treatments

 

Simple Steps to Maintain Your Bright-White Smile

Congratulations on achieving your stunning new smile! Your teeth have acquired a new glow, meaning the stains have been removed from your teeth's acquired pellicle, the layer of teeth which becomes stained. Keep in mind, however, that your teeth can still be stained again. Luckily, keeping your newly whitened teeth in pristine condition is not a difficult goal to accomplish following a teeth whitening at Dousman Family Dentistry. To maintain the effects of your teeth whitening as long as possible: 

1. Avoid Staining Agents: For the first 24 to 48 hours after teeth whitening, steer clear of products that will stain your teeth like coffee, tea, red wine, colored sodas, berries, tomato-based products, soy sauce and tobacco.

1. Opt for White Foods: In the first few days after your teeth whitening, stick to a diet of white foods such as plain chicken, white fish, rice, bananas, cauliflower and potatoes. These foods are less likely to stain your teeth than foods with more color in them.
2. Brush and Floss Regularly: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing once a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a fluoride toothpaste. 
3. Rinse Your Mouth After Eating or Drinking: If you do eat or drink staining foods or beverages, rinse your mouth with water as soon as possible. The water rinse will reduce the chance of surface stains settling on your teeth. If you can't rinse out your mouth, chew sugar-free gum within 20 minutes after eating or drinking to help remove stains.
4. Avoid Overly Hot or Cold Beverages: Extreme temperatures make your teeth more susceptible to staining. Choose lukewarm or room-temperature beverages instead.
5. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic substances can weaken your tooth enamel and make your teeth vulnerable to staining. Minimize your intake of citrus fruits, vinegar-based products and acidic drinks.
6. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Continue visiting Dousman Family Dental for regular dental checkups and cleanings. Professional cleanings remove surface stains and help you maintain optimal oral health.
7. Use a Straw: When consuming dark or acidic beverages, it’s best to use a straw to minimize the chances of staining your teeth.

 

The Two-Day Timeframe

It's important to note that teeth whitening temporarily removes the acquired pellicle layer for 24 hours. With that in mind, the 48 hours after a whitening procedure are critical to avoid tooth discoloration. If you have any questions or concerns about your teeth whitening aftercare, do not hesitate to contact us for guidance and support.