Achieving a whiter, brighter smile through teeth whitening can feel like a major confidence boost. But once you’ve reached your desired shade, the real work begins. Teeth whitening isn’t a one-time fix; it’s a cosmetic treatment that requires thoughtful care to preserve its effects. Knowing how to extend your results is key to getting the most value from your treatment.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
The biggest culprit behind stained teeth is your diet. Beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and soda are notorious for discoloration. These drinks contain pigments and acids that cling to tooth enamel, undoing your whitening progress. If cutting them out completely isn’t realistic, consider drinking through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. You can also rinse your mouth with water shortly after consuming these types of drinks.
Similarly, foods like berries, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and curry can leave stains over time. While these are perfectly healthy in moderation, it’s smart to be mindful of how often you eat them. When you do indulge, follow up with a glass of water or brush your teeth about 30 minutes afterward to help remove any lingering pigments.
Keep Up a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
Maintaining a solid oral hygiene routine is one of the most effective ways to keep your teeth white. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily helps prevent plaque buildup, which can cause discoloration. Using a whitening toothpaste once or twice a week can also help maintain your results by polishing away surface stains. However, avoid overusing abrasive toothpaste as it can wear down enamel over time, making your teeth more vulnerable to stains. Consider incorporating an antiseptic mouthwash into your routine as well. This can help reduce bacteria and freshen breath while also supporting your whitening results by keeping your mouth clean and balanced.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Even the most diligent brushing and flossing can’t remove every bit of plaque and tartar that builds up on your teeth. That’s where professional dental cleanings come in. Your dentist or dental hygienist has the tools and skills to clean areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Regular cleanings every six months could significantly prolong your whitening results, giving you a clean slate each time. During your cleaning, your dentist can also evaluate your enamel health and suggest touch-up treatments if necessary. This can be especially helpful if you notice fading results or if you consume foods and drinks that tend to stain.
Touch Up When Necessary
Even with the best care, some fading is inevitable over time. Fortunately, many whitening treatments are designed with maintenance in mind. Professional whitening services often include take-home trays or touch-up kits you can use occasionally to refresh your smile. It’s important not to over-whiten, as this can lead to tooth sensitivity and enamel damage. Stick to touch-up schedules advised by your dentist’s instructions, and always listen to your body if your teeth start to feel more sensitive than usual.
Be Mindful of Lifestyle Habits
Certain habits like smoking or chewing tobacco can quickly reverse the effects of whitening treatments. These substances cause deep stains that are hard to remove and also increase your risk for gum disease and oral cancers. If you’ve undergone whitening, consider it a good opportunity to kick these habits for the sake of both your smile and your health. Staying hydrated, especially with water, can also help. Water not only keeps your mouth clean by rinsing away food particles and staining agents, but it also promotes healthy saliva production, which naturally protects against staining and decay.
Teeth Whitening in Charlotte, NC
At Mallard Creed Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve brighter, healthier smiles. Our professional teeth whitening services could dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth. However, proper aftercare is crucial to maintain your new smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your cosmetic work.