A teeth whitening treatment can certainly improve your appearance and raise your self-esteem. However, to keep the results in the past, it is necessary to follow the rules of aftercare. As a result, the enamel is stripped, and the teeth are more sensitive and more prone to staining than before, so it is crucial to know what to do. This article will give you the necessary steps to keep your smile fresh and beautiful for many days.
Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Following your bleaching treatment, your teeth are more porous and susceptible to staining. Avoid dark-coloured drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda for a minimum of 48 hours. When you need to eat them, eat them with a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Eat pale-coloured foods such as rice, chicken, and potatoes to protect against stains.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Regular brushing and flossing are key to preserving your bright smile. A Little Italy dentist will advise brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and whitening toothpaste to polish your teeth carefully without irritating them. Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day will avoid the buildup of plaque and staining. Also, swishing with a fluoride-based mouthwash can toughen your enamel and give an added layer of protection.
Be Mindful of Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity is usual after a whitening process. In case you are in pain, apply desensitizing toothpaste on your teeth to reduce pain. Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks, as they may trigger sensitivity. Avoiding foods and liquids that are very hot or very cold and instead opting to sip lukewarm water will also reduce pain. If the problems persist, it is advisable to visit a dental clinic in Little Italy to get professional guidance on how to reduce sensitivity and maintain oral health.
Say No to Tobacco and Alcohol
Smoking and chewing tobacco can quickly stain your teeth, reversing the effects of your whitening treatment. Additionally, alcohol-based mouthwashes can weaken enamel and increase sensitivity. Opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash to maintain oral health and prolong your whitening results. If you smoke, consider using this opportunity to reduce or quit tobacco use, as it benefits both your dental and overall health.
Follow a White Diet
A crucial part of aftercare for teeth whitening is adhering to a white diet for at least 48 hours. This means consuming foods and drinks that are light in colour, such as yogurt, milk, pasta, and bananas. Dark or acidic foods, like berries, tomatoes, and soy sauce, should be avoided to prevent staining. This diet helps your teeth adjust post-treatment and maintains their whiteness for a longer period.
Keep Hydrated and Rinse Often
Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and reduces the risk of stains. Rinse your mouth with water after meals to remove residue that could discolour your teeth. This simple habit can significantly enhance the longevity of your whitening results. Green tea and herbal teas without added sugar can also be good alternatives to staining drinks.
Use a Whitening Touch-Up Kit
Many dental professionals recommend using at-home whitening kits to maintain your bright smile. However, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid overuse, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. If you are unsure about which product to use, consult a local dentist to find the most suitable option for your needs.
Schedule Routine Check-Ups
Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining both oral health and a bright smile. A dentist can perform professional cleanings to remove surface stains and monitor your dental health. Visiting your dentist every six months ensures your teeth remain strong and healthy. Your dentist can also provide additional whitening treatments if needed, helping you sustain the results for a longer period.
Consider Touch-Up Treatments
Over time, natural discoloration can occur due to diet and lifestyle choices. Touch-up treatments can help refresh your smile without undergoing a full whitening process. Speak to your dentist about how frequently you should consider these treatments based on your habits and oral health condition.
Let Rusholme Family Dentistry Help You Maintain Your Bright Smile
It is crucial to take good care of your teeth after any whitening treatment to keep the results for as long as possible. At Rusholme Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves on helping you achieve and keep a bright and healthy smile. We offer an individual approach, expert advice, and professional services to improve your oral health. If you need a check-up, more whitening treatments, or just some guidance on how to take care of your smile, our team of dentists has the experience to help.
Book an appointment today with our dentist in Little Italy and let us help you keep your smile shining for years to come!