When you want to brighten your smile, dentist-provided teeth whitening will provide fast, safe, and long-lasting results. But, while treatment is simple, you’ll still need to take special steps to protect your teeth from further stains or discomfort. To help you preserve your smile transformation, here are a few teeth whitening aftercare guidelines to follow.

Do:

Steer clear of staining substances.

Professional whitening solutions work by opening up small pores in the enamel so that stains can be lifted out. However, since these pores won’t close up automatically, it’s crucial to avoid staining substances in the first 24 hours after treatment or as directed by your dentist. Items that can discolor include cigarettes as well as dark foods and beverages—such as berries, red wine, coffee, tea, and pasta sauce. Instead, opt for items that are clear or white in color—including potatoes, water, or rice.

Touch-up as needed.

Depending on the extent of your whitening needs, your dentist may recommend additional at-home touch-ups after treatment. In these cases, most will only need to wear a special bleaching tray every few months to maintain results. If you don’t stick to this recommended schedule, your vibrant smile may become discolored sooner than you expected.

Don’t:

Ignore increased sensitivity.

Due to the enamel pore-opening process, a sensitive area of the portion tooth—known as dentin—can become temporarily exposed after treatment. To avoid dental sensitivity, avoid cold or hot foods and beverages. If sensitivity or pain continues a day after the treatment, talk to your dentist to see if switching to a desensitizing toothpaste could help or you require other types of care.

Brush right away.

Wait at least 30 minutes after teeth whitening before brushing. Brushing at this point could cause damage to the enamel that has been made temporarily vulnerable by the bleaching solution. After this period has passed, however, it’s crucial to maintain a normal oral hygiene routine to protect your smile from further discoloration as well as cavities and gum disease.

Backed with modern resources, Enterprise Dental Associates is a leading resource for teeth whitening in Coffee County. With a patient-centric approach, this caring staff will customize your treatment to help you achieve optimal brightening as well as experience minimal sensitivity. Beyond offering cosmetic services, these Enterprise, AL, dentists can also provide preventive and restorative dental care to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. To learn more about their comfortable, cost-effective, and convenient care, visit this dental clinic online. For appointments, call (334) 347-9564.