Teeth whitening can dramatically change the appearance of your smile in just one visit to the dental office. Professional whitening can make your teeth up to 8 shades whiter. The outcome of the procedure can also be customized based on your preferences and the health of your teeth. Once you get your bright smile, you will probably want the results to last for as long as possible. In this article, we talk about how to maintain teeth whitening results.
How to Maintain Teeth Whitening Results
There are several steps you can take to have the results of your teeth whitening procedure last longer:
Stay on Top of Your Daily Oral Hygiene
The longevity of your teeth whitening results largely depends on how well you care for your teeth. Food particles, plaque, and tartar that linger on your teeth will make the teeth appear stained or discolored. Also, bacteria that live in these substances destroy the enamel of the teeth and cause various oral health issues.
Brush your teeth twice a day— in the morning and before bed. Spend at least two full minutes thoroughly brushing your teeth, holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Make sure to brush each tooth on the front, the back, and the chewing surface, and clean in hard-to-reach areas at the back of the mouth.
Remember to floss every evening. Flossing is another essential step of a sufficient oral hygiene routine as it removes food debris and plaque between the teeth, where the toothbrush most likely can not be effective enough.
Choose the Right Toothpaste and Toothbrush
Avoid abrasive or whitening toothpaste and toothbrushes that are too hard for you. Instead, opt for a fluoride toothpaste that will help strengthen the enamel of your teeth. Ask your dentist to recommend the toothbrush that will be optimal for your teeth and gums.
Add a Water Flosser to Your Routine
A water flosser can boost the effectiveness of your daily teeth cleaning by removing plaque along the gum line and in hard-to-reach spots in the mouth. It is most effective if used before brushing, as it can increase the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste. However, remember that a water flosser can not replace traditional brushing and flossing and should be used as an additional step.
Avoid Other-the-counter Whitening Solutions
Keep in mind that other-the-counter whitening solutions are different from at-home whitening kits provided by your dentist. Other-the-counter products are not customized based on your needs and oral health. As a result, they can deliver unpredictable results and also severely damage the enamel of your teeth, especially if you have already undergone professional teeth whitening before.
If you notice stains or discoloration on your teeth, consult with your dentist. In many cases, teeth cleaning can solve the issue. Otherwise, your dentist will recommend other solutions suitable for your particular case.
Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Teeth that undergo professional whitening treatments can be more susceptible to staining agents in food and beverages. Thus, it is essential to avoid such products as:
- Red wine
- Black coffee and tea
- Berries and juices
- Sodas and other drinks that contain dye
- Carrots and beetroots
- Curry, paprika, and other brightly colored spices
If you eat or drink staining products, brush your teeth immediately after the meal. However, try to abstain from such products entirely for the first 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure, as during that time, the enamel of your teeth can remain more porous than usual and will absorb the pigments better.
Abstain From Smoking
Tobacco products are one of the leading causes of teeth staining and discoloration. On top of that, smoking can weaken your teeth and is a risk factor for gum disease.
Get Regular Professional Dental Cleanings and Fluoride Treatments
As we mentioned before, a professional dental cleaning can be effective at removing surface stains from the teeth. On top of that, during the cleaning, your dentist will remove the plaque and tartar, which might be the cause of your teeth looking discolored. Also, plaque and tartar are acidic and filled with bacteria and slowly destroy the enamel of your teeth, causing deep staining, cavities, and gum disease.
Fluoride treatments that are done as a last step of professional cleanings are effective at remineralizing the enamel of your teeth, making them stronger and more resistant to bacteria and decay.
Make an Appointment Today
If you are considering professional teeth whitening, do not hesitate to sign up for a consultation at our cosmetic dentistry office. At Monte Vista Dental Group, we use a comprehensive approach to every procedure and will carefully examine your oral health and recommend the most suitable whitening solution. We are looking forward to your visit.