After you complete your teeth whitening treatment, you want to ensure your teeth stay white. Our in-office and take-home teeth whitening treatments can last, but caring for your smile following treatment will yield the best results. Teeth whitening treatment is part of our cosmetic dentistry services in Milton, FL. We want to help patients keep their teeth bright after treatment in our office; here we will review some of the best tips to prevent further staining to your new smile.
How to Maintain Results After Teeth Whitening
After your teeth whitening treatment, you can keep your teeth bright by following these tips:
Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Some foods or drinks can easily stain the tooth enamel. After your teeth whitening treatment, avoid drinks like soda, coffee, tea, and sports drinks. Drinking through a straw can help minimize the risk of staining due to these drinks. Foods like berries, tomato-based sauces, balsamic vinegar, candy, and citrus can also contribute to staining. Avoiding acidic or staining foods can help prevent discoloration.
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking, vaping, and using tobacco products can yellow your tooth enamel. Tobacco products contain nicotine, which can easily stain and yellow teeth. Quitting tobacco products can improve not only your physical health but your oral health as well, preventing problems like dry mouth and bad breath.
Hydrate
Drinking water and eating foods high in water content, including certain fruits and vegetables, can actually help wash away harmful bacteria and foods or drinks that can stain teeth. Hydrating also increases saliva production to prevent problems like dry mouth that attract harmful bacteria.
Brush and Floss
It may seem simple, but brushing and flossing twice a day will remove surface stains and bacterial buildup from the teeth and gums. Make sure that you floss before you brush to remove food debris from between your teeth.
Use Mouthwash
You can use mouthwash to help remove bacteria and debris from teeth that contribute to tooth stains. Some types of mouthwash can also contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to keep teeth white. Remember to use an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol can lead to dry mouth and tooth enamel damage.
Receive Whitening Touch-Ups
We provide whitening touch-up treatments for patients in our office. Typically, patients will require touch-ups after a year or so. If you notice your results wearing off, contact our office. Touch-ups can ensure consistent results.
Do you want a brighter, healthier smile? Call our dental office for whitening care today at 850.427.5891. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Jim Lassiter online.