The popularity of teeth whitening has steadily grown over the past decade. Whitening your teeth helps remove stains and discoloration to reveal whiter, brighter teeth. The benefits go beyond cosmetics too – having an attractive smile has been linked to greater career success and positive social perceptions.
However, there is some post-procedure care required after professionally whitening your teeth. It’s normal to experience some sensitivity and irritation for a couple of days. Avoiding staining foods and beverages is also recommended to maintain results. But rest assured, as long as you follow your dentist’s at-home regimen, any discomfort is temporary.
For many patients, achieving long-lasting whiteness and eliminating years of build-up is well worth that short adjustment period. There are many affordable dentists for teeth whitening in Burton!
Also Read: 6 Important Benefits Of Regular Dental Visits
Things You Should Avoid After Whitening Your Teeth
After going through teeth whitening treatment, it is important to avoid certain foods, drinks, and habits that can negatively impact results. Being cautious with what you consume and how you care for your teeth will help preserve your bright, white smile.
Here are the top things to steer clear of after professionally or at home whitening your teeth.
Avoid Dark-Colored Beverages
Beverages like coffee, tea, sports drinks, sodas, and red wine are very common culprits for tooth staining and discoloration. These dark-hued drinks can cling to teeth and slowly diminish the hard-earned results of whitening over time. Tea contains tannins that allow pigments to affix strongly, while wine includes chromogens that lend a dark red or purple tint.
It’s best to minimize consumption of staining beverages after teeth brightening procedures. But if you do indulge, be sure to use a straw to reduce contact with teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water immediately after will also help prevent stubborn staining.
Stay Away from Acidic Foods
Acidic foods and beverages should be minimized following teeth whitening sessions. Things like citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar all have highly acidic properties. Eating these items can erode tooth enamel, increasing sensitivity and making teeth more prone to discoloration.
Weakened enamel also becomes more transparent, causing the yellow inner dentin layer to show through more noticeably. This can give the appearance of new stains when it’s actually pre pre-existing underlying color being revealed. Go easy on acidic items and be diligent with oral hygiene to limit damage and sensitivity after whitening.
Skip Smoking and Tobacco Products
It should come as no surprise that smoking and tobacco use can wreak havoc on your dental aesthetics. In addition to the major health implications, the tar and nicotine lead to rampant staining and yellowing of tooth surfaces. All that effort and money spent making your teeth pearly white can go down the drain with steady tobacco use.
Most whitening services require refraining from smoking during and for some time after treatment. But for the best long-term prognosis, it’s smart to cease tobacco use altogether. Your smile’s brightness and well-being will thank you. Discuss cessation support with your dentist and medical provider.
Be Cautious with Colored Mouthwash and Toothpaste
Opt for clear dental care products without dyes or colors added after undergoing teeth whitening procedures. Certain types of mouthwash contain alcohol, chemicals, and pigmenting agents that may contribute to staining over time.
Using mouthwash is important for oral hygiene but be selective of the actual formula after professional whitening services. Toothpaste can also include color additives, typically to give an illusion of extreme cleaning efficacy. However, these dyes may transfer onto tooth surfaces, diminishing the results of whitening treatments. Stick to tried and true brands focused on gentle cleaning without flashy colors built into the paste itself.
Avoid Excessive Brushing
It’s vital to maintain your normal oral hygiene habits after teeth whitening, including regular brushing and flossing. But take care not to overdo it, as excessive brushing force or using firm bristled toothbrushes can actually scratch enamel. This opens you up to increased staining and temperature sensitivity in teeth.
Brush gently using soft or extra-soft bristles, taking care along the gum lines and avoiding harsh back-and-forth motion. Ease pressure and let the paste do the cleaning work for you. Overaggressive habits can do more harm than good if not mindful of your freshly whitened and sensitive smile.
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Minimizing sugar intake is always wise advice, but especially important after undergoing teeth whitening procedures. Sugar interacts with oral bacteria to produce enamel-eroding acid, instigating dental decay. Foods like candy, baked goods, syrupy drinks, and even fruits can lead to cavities if allowed to linger.
Avoiding sweets and maintaining meticulous oral hygiene prevents tooth decay that can undermine your brightened smile. Brushing and flossing thoroughly after meals will help prevent lasting sugar residue. Drink plenty of water and limit snacking to further reduce the impact. Keep smiles bright by cutting down on sugar!
Conclusion
Looking for “emergency dentist near me in Burton“ on Google? Visit Burton Advance Dental!
If you just whitened your teeth, finding the right dentist is key. You need someone near you who can help avoid issues after whitening. We have Dr. Seela, a highly experienced dentist. Our goal is for you to feel at ease and have no stress.
Our Burton family dental clinic uses the newest tools in dentistry. This allows precise testing and smooth treatments. We are easy to reach for people in Burton. Dr. Seela can guide you if problems come up. Whether it is pain, gum trouble, or other things, we are here to help.
Stop searching for “dentist near me” on the internet! Burton Dental Center has highly trained dentists conveniently located for residents throughout the Burton area looking for exceptional oral health care.
Disclaimer- The information provided in this content is just for educational purposes and is written by a professional writer. Consult us to learn more about teeth whitening.
