Professional teeth whitening is a great investment to improve the appearance of your smile and boost your self-confidence. However, it's important to understand that your teeth are especially susceptible to discoloration and staining immediately after teeth whitening. Thus, what you do after teeth whitening, especially in the first 48 hours after treatment, determines how well your results will last. The following are some ways you can optimize your investment and get the most out of the in-office teeth whitening treatment.
1. Avoid drinking colored beverages
Like most people, you might enjoy a morning cup of coffee or an evening glass of red wine. However, colored beverages can stain your teeth. Choose better alternatives, like clear alcohol, white wine, milk, coconut milk, and water. However, if you can't live without your morning coffee, drink it through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
2. Don't eat dark colored food
Similar to colored beverages, there is also a wide range of food to avoid after whitening your teeth. These include: dark-colored sauces (e.g. tomato or pasta sauce), colorful spices (e.g. curry, turmeric, paprika, etc.), chocolate and colored candy (e.g. M&Ms, Skittles, etc.), and highly pigmented vegetables, fruits, and berries (e.g. beets, tomatoes, pomegranate, etc.) A good rule of thumb is that if it can stain a white shirt, it will stain your teeth. Instead, opt for light-colored food, such as cauliflower, pasta, white fish, cheese, grilled chicken breast, and tofu.
3. Avoid acidic food
During the teeth whitening procedure, your tooth enamel is slightly weakened due to the bleach. Beverages and food with high acidic content, such as citrus fruit, pickled food, and processed meats, can further weaken your enamel. This can lead to even more sensitivity and increased risk of re-staining. Stay away from acidic food for at least 48 hours after teeth whitening, to minimize discomfort and protect your freshly whitened smile.
4. Brush your teeth regularly
Even after teeth whitening, you still need to brush your teeth regularly to maintain the pearly white color. Sensitivity is common after teeth whitening, so brush your teeth with a soft bristled tooth brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. To alleviate sensitivity, also try toothpaste and mouthwash that are specifically made for sensitive teeth.
5. Cut out tobacco use
Smoking or chewing tobacco is not just extremely harmful to your health, but is also a major contributor to teeth staining and discoloration. To keep your teeth from re-staining after a teeth whitening treatment, avoid tobacco products, at least for the first few days after whitening.
If you are interested in a professional teeth whitening consultation, call our office at (925) 705-7093 or request an appointment online.
