A sparkling smile can really boost your self-esteem! If you’ve just gone to the dentist for a teeth whitening procedure, you naturally want to maintain your newfound pearly whites as long as you can. At Ohau Dental Care, the best cosmetic dentistry practice on the island, Dr. Dayton Lum has more than 33 years of experience helping people achieve lasting healthy and happy smiles. Recognized as one of Hawaii’s top dentists, Dr. Lum offers these post-teeth whitening maintenance tips.

3 Ways to Make Your Teeth Whitening Procedure Last Even Longer

1. Avoid Staining Food & Drinks

One of the biggest reasons people have their teeth whitened is because their teeth have been stained by food and drinks. During the first 48 hours after you teeth whitening procedure, stay away from coffee and tea, red wine, soda, condiments, berries, pasta sauce, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce. After 48 hours, try to use a straw when drinking coffee or red wine.

2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

To keep your teeth whiter for longer, keep brushing twice a day with a teeth-whitening toothpaste and flossing daily. Additionally, whenever you do eat or drink something that might stain your teeth, brush your teeth or use a mouth rinse immediately after to prevent stains from building back up again. Don’t forget to schedule regular teeth cleaning appointments with your dentist, too.

3. Stop Smoking

If you smoke and continue to smoke following a teeth whitening procedure, your teeth will continue to yellow. If you want your teeth to be white as long as possible, stop smoking today.

For more information about the cosmetic dentistry services offered at Oahu Dental Care, visit the website or call the Pearl City location at (808) 456-5005 or the Honolulu location at (808)  732-2821.