Teeth Whitening Aftercare: How to Limit Additional Stains
Many patients from throughout the greater Philadelphia area come to Artistic Expressions Dentistry in order to get smiles that are bright, white, and look their absolute best. One of the most popular options for achieving an excellent smile is professional teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening bleaches stains and removes discoloration, allowing you to smile with absolute confidence.
There is one question we get a lot from patients who undergo teeth whitening, however...
Can my teeth become stained after teeth whitening treatment?
Yes.
While teeth whitening treatments are a great option for eliminating tooth stains and serious cases of discoloration, your teeth will still be susceptible to stains after the treatment is performed. This staining will usually happen gradually and is caused by the same substances that caused the initial tooth discoloration.
Thankfully there are many ways that tooth discoloration can be prevented and the results of teeth whitening treatment prolonged. Here are five tips to consider to make your bright and white smile last longer.
Tip #1: Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and chewing tobacco are bad for your general health, and they're downright awful if you want to have a smile that looks its very best. If you want to keep your teeth looking bright and white, stay away from cigarettes and chewing tobacco. It's just one more compelling reason to quit.
(If you need more reasons to quit smoking or just plain not start, we encourage you to read our previous blog post on the affects of smoking on your oral health.)
Tip #2: Be Wary About Foods and Beverages That Cause Discoloration
Substances that can cause a stain once can cause stains to happen again and again. After you undergo teeth whitening, be wary when it comes to the following foods and beverages:
- Coffee
- Cola
- Tea
- Red wine
- Curries
- Berries
- Beets
- Carrots
- Tomato sauce
Be sure to consume the above in moderation. When it comes to beverages, you may want to consider a drinking straw when applicable since that will allow the stain-causing liquids to bypass the teeth.
Tip #3: Good Oral Hygiene Is a Must
Brushing and flossing is always a great option to make your smile look its best. Be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss your teeth every night in order to ensure that you smile is its healthiest and brightest.
Also, if you consume any of the substances listed in Tip #2, brushing and flossing right after will help reduce the amount of discoloration to your smile.
Tip #4: Regular Dental Visits Are Key to Lasting Wellness
In addition to regular brushing and flossing, regular dental visits will be crucial to ensuring that you smile looks its absolute best. Be sure to visit your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups. This will allow minor problems to be addressed before they progress to dental health issues, whether they relate to overall wellness or smile aesthetics.
Tip #5: Touch-Up Teeth Whitening Is Like Routine Maintenance
In order to maintain the overall brightness and whiteness of your smile, the occasional touch-up teeth whitening treatment is recommended. This will allow you to undergo periodic maintenance of the results of the initial treatment, making you smile look white and wonderful for years ahead.
Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
To learn more about cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help you have a smile that's bright, white, and beautiful, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. Bruce Wilderman and his entire team look forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the very best results when it comes to dental care treatments.