If you're obtaining a professional teeth whitening treatment to brighten your smile, you naturally want to maintain the results well into the future. There are several forms of teeth whitening aftercare that should be followed to accomplish this, and having a general idea of these needs is important.
At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, we're here to offer the best teeth whitening services available around Layton and nearby areas, helping brighten clients' smiles effectively. Here are some important teeth whitening aftercare tips from our professionals to ensure your bright smile remains well after your appointment.
In the immediate aftermath of teeth whitening, your teeth can be particularly susceptible to staining. For this reason, we suggest you stay away from certain foods and drinks that contain dark pigments for at least 24 hours after treatment. These might include:
These kinds of drinks and food can quickly reverse the effects of teeth whitening, so it’s best to avoid them for a day or two after treatment. Some people even choose to steer clear of these for longer periods just to ensure no issues.
In addition to avoiding certain foods and drinks, it’s important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine to keep your newly whitened teeth looking their best. This includes:
By following these steps, you can help prevent stains from developing and keep your smile bright.
Smoking is a major contributor to tooth discoloration, so if you’re a smoker, it’s important to be aware that teeth whitening may not have the same results as it would for non-smokers. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes can leave stubborn stains on your teeth that are difficult to remove with traditional whitening methods.
If you’re a smoker, it’s best to quit before undergoing any teeth whitening treatments. Not only will it improve the overall health of your mouth, but it will also increase the effectiveness of teeth whitening procedures. And let’s not forget the added benefits of improved lung and heart function, as well as a reduced risk of various cancers.
If you’re not ready to quit smoking, there are still options for brightening your smile. Talk to your dentist about alternative methods, such as veneers or bonding, that can cover up the discoloration caused by smoking. However, these are only temporary solutions, and it’s important to remember that quitting smoking is the best way to maintain a white and healthy smile.
Another vital part of long-term teeth whitening aftercare is professional dental cleanings. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings not only keep your teeth and gums healthy, but they also help to remove surface stains and prevent them from becoming deeply embedded in your enamel.
During a cleaning, your dentist or hygienist may use specialized tools and techniques to remove plaque, tartar, and other buildup that can contribute to discoloration of the teeth. They may also polish your teeth using a special paste that helps to lift surface stains and leave your teeth looking brighter.
One area that's largely individual is how often you should perform touch-up teeth whitening. This depends on a variety of factors, including your diet, lifestyle habits, and the original shade of your teeth.
In general, it's recommended to get a touch-up every six months to one year. However, if you consume dark-colored beverages or foods regularly (such as coffee, tea, red wine, or tomato sauce), you may need more frequent touch-ups.
Additionally, if you smoke or use tobacco products regularly, this can also affect the rate at which your teeth discolor and require touch-ups. It's important to speak with your dentist about your specific situation and develop a personalized plan for maintaining a white smile.
At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, we're proud to offer the best teeth whitening services you'll find around Layton and nearby parts of northern Utah. Contact us today to learn more about teeth whitening aftercare or for any of our other dental solutions. We're standing by to assist you!
