Professional teeth whitening services can help you get a bright smile quickly and safely. However, the procedure is likely to have a bigger impact if you follow all instructions from your dentist leading up to and following your appointment. Here are some of the general care tips to keep in mind.

How to Care for Your Teeth After a Whitening Procedure

1. Avoid Foods That Stain

Dark food and drink contain chemical compounds called chromogens that can stain teeth. This can be especially troubling in the few days after a teeth whitening treatment since the enamel is still not fully healed.

Stay away from items like coffee, red wine, cola, tomatoes, and chocolate for 48 hours following treatment. Acidic foods can also wear down your tooth enamel, leaving them susceptible to staining. Opt for food and drink that are generally colorless, like water, white wine, white meats, potatoes, and rice.

2. Consider Follow Up Treatments

Some patients notice a major difference after one session. However, others may want to follow up with their dentist after a few months to whiten their teeth even more.

Regardless of whether or not you plan to continue whitening treatments, visit your dentist every six months for regular cleanings. Keeping up with dental visits will help remove excess plaque that could be missed with your daily routine. This will help protect your enamel, leaving your smile bright and healthy.

3. Keep Up With Daily Oral Hygiene

Professional teeth whitening does not require you to change your daily cleaning habits, so continue to brush twice daily and floss once a day to remove plaque and prevent cavities. Rinse your mouth with water after each meal to remove leftover particles that could stain your enamel. Consider switching to a whitening toothpaste to maximize your results.

If you’re looking for a dentist to provide teeth whitening or regular oral maintenance, contact Riviera Dental Care in Foley, AL. This family-oriented dentistry practice offers a wide array of services, from cleanings and emergency dental care to botox and sleep apnea treatments. The experienced staff provides friendly service and uses state of the art equipment to provide the best care possible. Visit their website for a full list of services. To request an appointment, call (251) 943-3368.