Now that you’ve whitened your teeth, you probably can’t stop smiling. And who can blame you? Teeth whitening is a great way to eliminate years of stains and discoloration that may have prevented you from looking and feeling your best. But remember – just because your teeth are pearly white today doesn’t mean they will stay that way six months from now, unless you commit to caring for your teeth the moment you leave your dentist’s office. The first 24 hours are critical for post-whitening care, so be sure to follow these tips to ensure your newly bright smile stays that way.
Beverages
Avoid drinks that stain your teeth such as coffee, tea, juices, carbonated drinks, energy drinks and non-white wines. It’s best to stick to milk or water. Be sure to drink beverages at room temperature; avoid anything that is too hot or too cold. You should also pass on acidic juices such as lemonade and tomato or orange juice.
Food
When eating, focus on non-staining foods such as plain skinless chicken, fish, white rice and pasta with white sauces. White cheese, egg whites, white (not wheat) bread, plain yogurt, and plain cereal are fine too. Bananas are the only safe fruits to consume during this period. As dentists say, if it stains a white shirt, it will stain your teeth, so spaghetti sauces, beets and green veggies are out.
Tobacco
Avoid smoking and smokeless tobacco as this will stain your teeth and render the whitening treatment unsuccessful. In fact, why not commit to quitting now that your teeth are looking great?
Brushing
Choose non-colored toothpaste and mouthwash. Avoid charcoal toothpastes or any abrasives or polish. Be sure to use a soft brush and don’t brush too aggressively.
Make-up
Certain lipsticks can stain your teeth, so either use smudge-proof lipstick or a clear gloss for the first few days after whitening.
Ongoing Care After Teeth Whitening
If you can, it’s best to try to incorporate these initial modifications into habit; that way you can sustain that beautiful smile for years to come. Remember to floss, brush and use mouthwash daily. You may want to ask your dentist about specialized oral care products such as whitening and anti-sensitivity toothpastes. Regular dental visits will also help extend the effects of teeth whitening. Depending on your dentist’s advice, you may need to keep up with at-home whitening touch-ups or revisit the whitening process for periodic touch-ups.
Teeth Whitening in the Twin Cities
If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your smile because of discolored teeth, then it’s time to consider teeth whitening. In the Twin Cities, Hagerman Dental Care provides a variety of general, cosmetic and restorative dental services, to include teeth whitening. In as little as one appointment, Dr. Steven Hagerman can lighten your teeth up to eight shades whiter than before – with no messy trays or gels. Imagine: your teeth up to eight shades lighter in a lunch hour! If you are ready to achieve your brightest smile, call Hagerman Dental Care today at (651) 646-2392 or request an appointment now.