After professional teeth whitening treatments, your smile will be noticeably brighter. A sparkling grin can instill confidence and boost your self-esteem, and it only makes sense you would want to preserve that radiance for as long as possible. Use the following guide to discover a few tips for keeping your teeth looking beautiful after a whitening appointment.
Do:
Avoid certain foods.
For at least the first 48 hours following treatment, steer clear of dark foods and drinks that are prone to staining the teeth. This includes coffee, tea, fruit juices, red wine, and dark sauces, like tomato, barbecue, and soy sauce. Overly acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and vinegar, can weaken and discolor enamel, so these should also be avoided in the short term.
Rinse often.
Keeping your mouth rinsed will prevent foods from sticking to and staining the surface of the teeth. If you can't brush after meals, use an antiseptic mouthwash. Drink plenty of water and swish it around your mouth throughout the day, especially in between sips of coffee.
Don't:
Abandon good oral care practices.
Just because you've upgraded your smile doesn't mean it's acceptable to forsake good oral hygiene practices. Continue brushing twice a day and flossing once daily.
Ask your dental care provider if they recommend any specific whitening toothpaste to help prolong the effects of the treatment. Maintain regular, twice-yearly visits to the dentist and have any recommended dental work performed as soon as possible. These steps will keep a smile bright and healthy for longer.
Neglect occasional touchups.
Unfortunately, no teeth whitening treatment produces results that last forever. When you notice your smile starting to dim, schedule another session. There is no precise timeline for this, so keep tabs on the shade of your teeth. People who smoke or drink coffee or tea daily may need more regular touchups than others.
Experience the benefits of a brighter smile with teeth whitening treatments from Hulse Dental. Since 1992, this office has been providing dental care to patients throughout Onalaska, WI, and the Coulee Region. They provide comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services. From preventative exams and cleanings to crowns, implants, and root canals, they are dedicated to the health of your teeth and gums and the brightness of your smile. Call (608) 783-1306 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more.