Everyone wants a dazzling smile, and many people opt for a teeth whitening treatment to achieve it. With the help of your dentist, you can restore your teeth to brilliant whiteness and enjoy the confidence that it brings. Whitening is a simple, short process, but to get the most of it, there are a few things you’ll want to do and avoid. Here are a few steps you can take to prolong the results of your teeth whitening.

How to Preserve Your Teeth Whitening Results

1. Watch What You Eat

The foods we eat are the most significant factor in the whiteness of our teeth. Coffee, tomato sauce, red wine, curries, colored sodas, and berries contain agents that darken and stain teeth. By avoiding or limiting your consumption of these foods and beverages, you can keep your teeth whiter longer.

As an alternative, munch on crunchy, water-heavy produce, like carrots, apples, celery, or green beans. These fibrous snacks will help scrub staining agents off your teeth while you’re eating them.

2. Brush After Each Meal

Lingering food particles and bacteria can stick to your teeth after eating. When these substances decompose, they’ll weaken and discolor your teeth. To prolong the effects of your whitening treatment, keep a toothbrush with you at all times to give your pearly whites a quick scrub after eating.

3. Don’t Smoke

This bad habit will diminish your smile, as the tar and nicotine will turn your teeth yellow. While there are specialized toothpaste formulas and stain removers for tobacco users, the best cure is prevention. Avoid smoking altogether to keep your teeth white, as well as preserve and improve your overall health. If you need help kicking the habit, call a quitline or start with patches.

 

If you want more tips on how you can preserve your teeth whitening results, contact the team at Dentaworks Hawaii in Honolulu. Dr. Douglas Chang, DDS, and his team have provided their Oahu patients with excellent dental care for over 30 years. They welcome patients of all ages and offer a range of cosmetic and general dentistry services, including teeth whitening treatments and routine cleanings. Get more information about their services by visiting their website or calling (808) 528-1200.