Teeth whitening enhances your smile, but maintaining the results requires proper care, as they can otherwise fade over time. Before we get started, let’s review what teeth whitening involves. Then, we will share practical tips to help you retain the results of teeth whitening treatment.
What You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens and brightens natural teeth. This mainly involves removing stains using a strong bleaching agent. The bleaching solution is sometimes accompanied by light therapy for effectiveness.
Teeth whitening can be carried out in different ways. Some options include professional in-office treatments, dentist-supplied take-home kits, and store-bought products such as strips or toothpaste.
Note that some patients experience temporary sensitivity after whitening. Additionally, whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, or fillings.
Best Practices for Maintaining the Results of Teeth Whitening
The following lists some advice patients can follow to extend the results of teeth whitening:
Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Several beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, contain staining pigments, such as tannins, that can diminish the effects of teeth whitening.
Similarly, certain foods, such as blueberries and blackberries, are rich in anthocyanins, which can cause staining. Moreover, berries are acidic, which can weaken the enamel and make the teeth more susceptible to discoloration.
Smoking and chewing tobacco can also lead to significant tooth staining, especially with daily use. To retain your teeth whitening results, limit the intake of staining or acidic foods and beverages. Rinse with water after consuming these, and wait 30–60 minutes before brushing if the food or drink is acidic. You can also use other healthier substitutes that do not stain.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Studies show that poor oral hygiene practices after whitening treatment can lead to plaque buildup. This leads to re-staining of the teeth and impacts the longevity of whitening results. Good dental care is your weapon to keep your teeth bright. A proper oral hygiene routine involves:
- Cleaning your teeth using a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
- Using dental floss/floss holder/floss threader to brush between the teeth, not just the surfaces.
- Go for regular dental check-ups for professional cleaning and check-ups.
- Take fluoridated water throughout the day.
Consider Touch-Up Treatments
Whitening results typically last 6 months to 3 years. Professional touch-ups help maintain them.
The frequency of touch-up sessions generally depends upon:
- Intensity of stains
- Post-care of whitening treatment
- Type of whitening treatment
However, maintenance sessions are generally less time-consuming and less intensive than your initial whitening treatment.
Use Straws
Using a straw to drink beverages reduces the amount of liquid that comes into contact with your teeth. This reduces the risk of new stains and helps maintain teeth whitening results.
Final Thoughts
Teeth whitening can produce beautiful, long-lasting results when paired with proper oral hygiene, stain-conscious dietary habits, and professional maintenance. Since whitening does not affect existing dental restorations and may cause temporary sensitivity, it is important to have a dental evaluation before and after treatment.
With proper care and periodic professional touch-ups, your brighter smile can last for years.For professional touch-ups or more advice on the results of teeth whitening treatment, visit DentaLand Dentistry, or call (832) 674-8377 for consultation with the specialist.