Professional teeth whitening can lift away years of stains from the surfaces of your teeth, revealing a whiter, more healthy-looking smile. However, some at-home care is necessary to maintain your results. Knowing how to care for your whitened teeth will ensure they stay bright for a long time.

3 Ways To Maintain White Teeth

1. Focus On Routine Dental Care

Plaque and tartar accumulation can make your teeth look yellow quickly. Focus on perfecting your at-home dental care routine. Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss to keep plaque from accumulating between your teeth. In addition to keeping your teeth white, you can also prevent unsightly cavities and gum disease. 

2. Avoid Heavily Pigmented Foods

Dental enamel is porous, which is why heavily pigmented foods can leave behind a tinge of color. Avoid foods that contain heavy amounts of natural or artificial pigment, such as tomato sauce, blackberries, and cola after a teeth whitening. If you drink beverages that have natural color, such as coffee, consider using a straw to keep the pigments from touching the front surfaces of your teeth. Chewing gum or swishing your mouth with water after a meal can also prevent staining.

3. Use Sensitivity Toothpaste

During whitening, a chemical reaction occurs between the peroxide and your dental enamel that releases small tubules present on the surfaces of your teeth. This release allows whitening treatments to penetrate deeper into the tooth, creating better results. However, it can also cause sensitivity. To soothe your teeth, consider using a sensitivity toothpaste after teeth whitening. These special formulations are designed to calm the nerves of the teeth, keeping your smile comfortable. 

Whether you have recently whitened your teeth or you are considering the procedure to brighten your smile, the team at Parkway Family Dental in Kalispell, MT, can help. In addition to offering routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings, and crown placement, this state-of-the-art dental practice also offers teeth whitening, laser dentistry, and WaterLase iPlus Technology to make treatment faster, easier, and more comfortable for patients. Learn more about their gentle approach by visiting their website, or give them a call at (406) 752-2372.