You’ve just had your teeth professionally whitened and made a huge investment in your smile — congrats! There’s nothing like a bright, fresh smile to boost your confidence. But how can you make sure your results last?
Teeth whitening isn’t permanent, but with the right care, you can keep your smile looking its best month after month. In this blog, our teeth-whitening experts at Rifkin Dental in Carmel and Yorktown Heights, New York, walk you through simple tips to help maintain that fresh-from-the-dentists sparkle.
If you want to maintain a bright white smile, certain foods and drinks should be on your no-no list. These include pigment-rich and acidic foods and beverages like:
If you must have any of these foods or drinks, use a straw, rinse your mouth with water, and/or brush your teeth shortly after eating and drinking.
Proper brushing and flossing can prevent new stains from developing and maintain your professional whitening. We recommend brushing and flossing twice daily and using an alcohol-free mouthwash to help buff out surface stains.
Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles look frayed.
Even with the best care, some discoloration is inevitable. Regular touch-ups can help extend the life of your whitening treatments. Make an appointment with us when you’re ready for another round of whitening treatments, or ask about our favorite between-treatment whitening solutions, like over-the-counter strips and whitening pens.
Water isn’t just great for your overall health — it also helps rinse away stain-causing particles before they settle into your enamel. Drink a glass of water after every meal or alternate between sips of coffee and tea to reduce stains.
Smoking and tobacco use are notorious for creating yellow, discolored teeth. The combination of nicotine, tar, and other harmful chemicals creates deep stains that are tough to remove, even with professional whitening treatments.
Quitting tobacco use has immediate health benefits and can help you maintain the white smile you invested in.
Some foods actually help keep your teeth white by scrubbing away stains and increasing saliva production.
Some of these natural toothbrushes include crunchy fruits and veggies, like apples, carrots, and celery. Nuts have a similar scrubbing effect. You can also increase your intake of dairy products to support and strengthen your enamel (the white outer layer of your teeth).
Regular visits to your dentist are key to keeping your teeth healthy and white. Professional cleaning agents remove plaque and surface stains that build up over time. Make sure you’re on our calendar every six months, and consider adding a once-a-year whitening consultation to keep your smile bright.
A little effort goes a long way to keeping your teeth white. By avoiding stain-causing foods, maintaining good oral hygiene, and scheduling touch-ups as needed, you can enjoy your bright smile for much longer.
If you have more questions about teeth whitening and how to maximize your results, schedule a consultation online or over the phone today at our Rifkin Dental location closest to you.
