Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to nix stains on your smile and improve its overall appearance. When you do spring for this cosmetic dentistry procedure, you want the results to last as long as possible. Here, the professionals of Kaimuki Dental Group in Honolulu, HI, explain how to maintain your freshly polished pearly whites.

It’s important to steer clear of certain foods and drinks after teeth whitening, including:

• Coffee & Tea: Coffee and tea both contain tannins, which are organic substances known to discolor teeth. If you can’t forego the caffeine, at least mix your beverage with milk.
• Wine: Red wine is a notorious culprit when it comes to staining teeth. You might think white wine is a safer option. In fact, what makes these alcoholic beverages so bad for teeth is their high acid content, which damages enamel and makes teeth more susceptible to stains.
• Pasta & Curry Sauces: Pasta sauce likewise tends to contain a lot of acid, and it has a bright red hue that easily penetrates weakened enamel. Curry-based sauces also have a high staining factor and are best limited in your diet.

If you can’t cut these foods and drinks out of your diet completely, there are still steps you can take to mitigate the damage they can enact. Sipping beverages with a straw minimizes contact with teeth. When it comes to foods, include fresh vegetables with your pasta and curry dishes. Crunching on veggies can combat stains while eating.

Finally, if you want to keep your smile shining, practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth in the mornings and before bed, and floss after your last meal of the day. If you can’t brush mid-day, rinse with water and chew on sugar-free gum to get saliva flowing, which helps clear away debris and keep teeth clean. Last but not least, visit your dentist regularly.

If you’re in need of a dental clinic in Honolulu, HI, consider Kaimuki Dental Group. These professionals are dedicated to helping their patients achieve optimal oral health, emphasizing preventative care that staves off problems before they even begin. You can learn more about their services, including teeth whitening, online. For an appointment, call (808) 737-7905.