Teeth whitening is currently one of the most desired cosmetic treatments due to its ability to lessen or completely remove stains like coffee, red wine or tobacco. The best whitening treatments available are provided by trained dentists. Their chemicals not only brighten discolored teeth, but they also enhance the enamel (outer layer of teeth) for overall better oral health. If you are considering this treatment, you should know the biggest do’s and don’ts to maintaining your pearly whites longer.

Do:

Brush & floss often.

You should continue your good dental care habits, including brushing and flossing often. Use a fluoride toothpaste with enamel-boosting properties twice a day, and floss once a day. Brushing more often with a toothbrush labeled “soft” can help remove sticky or sugary substances from your teeth before they can erode your enamel. These good habits will not only keep your teeth white longer, but it will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Schedule teeth whitening touch-ups.

Teeth whitening is not a one-time treatment, as your teeth will continue to be impacted by any food or drink you consume. Fading is a completely natural and unique process that depends on your dietary preferences, oral health hygiene, and tobacco habits. Thus, it’s important to do home touchups every 6-12 months.

Don’t:

Eat or drink foods that have staining properties for 24 hours.

The best rule of thumb post-treatment is that if a food or drink will stain a white shirt, it will stain your freshly whitened teeth. Drinks to avoid for the first day after teeth whitening include coffee, tea, wine, fruity drinks, and any soft or alcoholic drinks with coloring added to them. If you must drink one of these, use a straw to limit exposure to your teeth. Foods to avoid include tomato sauce, soy sauce, red meat, berries, candy, and chocolate.

Smoke or chew tobacco.

Tobacco is one of the biggest culprits of teeth discoloration due to the heightened build-up of plaque and tartar. At the very least, you need to refrain from smoking a cigarette or chewing tobacco for the first 24 hours after your treatment. Eliminating it altogether, however, will keep your teeth white longer, reduce your risk for oral cancer, and improve your overall health. 

These tips will make your teeth whitening last longer, but if you have more specific questions about your teeth, contact the professionals at Stacy Lesley, DDS in Concord, NC. Their caring and compassionate dentists are trained in everything from annual teeth cleanings to crowns, implants, and root canals. Call (704) 766-1488 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about dental health.