How to Maintain Results after Teeth Whitening

Your smile is often the first thing others notice about you, which is why there has been an increase in the demand for cosmetic dental treatment in recent years. One of the quickest and most efficient ways to improve the appearance of your smile is teeth whitening. With many whitening options, including in-office and take-home services, it’s easy to achieve the results you want.

After a patient undergoes a teeth-whitening, they’re often concerned with how to maintain their bright new smile. Because teeth whitening is not a permanent cosmetic improvement, here are some ways in which you can prolong your results:

1. Avoid Food and Beverages That Stain Teeth
Many of the foods and beverages we love work against our cosmetic goals and create surface stains that are yellow in tint. Some of these dietary choices include coffee, tea, red wine, soft drinks, and berries. If you do enjoy these often, it’s best to rinse your teeth immediately after.

2. Drink Through Straws
Some beverages are best enjoyed through a straw, and those include drinks that are highly pigmented, such as cola and black tea. Exposure to these liquids can be lessened when a straw is used.

3. Reduce Eliminate Habits That Harm Tooth Enamel
Patients who smoke have heard a thousand different ways their habit impacts their health, but what they may not consider is the impact smoking has on their teeth. Smoking can cause dental enamel to appear dark or yellow, at a minimum.  If you’re considering teeth whitening treatment, it’s also best to evaluate ways to limit smoking or kick the habit altogether.

4. Eat Fibrous Foods
Fruits and veggies that are high in fiber actually scrub the surface of teeth as you chew. What’s more, these foods boost saliva production, which helps clean teeth. Keep in mind that some fruits are naturally high in sugar, so it’s still recommended that you rinse after eating them.

5. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
As with all aspects of dental health, proper oral hygiene has a significant impact on the way your smile looks as well. Taking proper care of your smile, including brushing at least twice a day, can help maintain the results of your teeth whitening treatment.

Are you interested in obtaining a brighter, whiter smile? The team at South Bay Dentistry and Orthodontics offers treatment options that meet your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!