Professional tooth whitening is an effective way to improve your smile’s appearance. Be it because of your nutrition, habits such as smoking, or even just aging, your teeth can become stained or discolored, leading to many issues with your self-confidence.
Unfortunately, while tooth whitening can address these issues, the effects are not permanent. People generally need a touch-up around 1-2 years after their treatment. However, there are some things you can do to help maintain your new smile at home.
Keep on reading to find out more.
These tips can help you keep your new smile longer, as well as address any heightened sensitivity you can experience after getting your teeth whitened.
A tooth whitening session can increase tooth sensitivity temporarily. The good news is that most patients go back to normal in a few days. But until then it can feel a bit uncomfortable.
You can use desensitizing toothpaste to help reduce your pain, and gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for a few days, until your symptoms disappear.
The best way to ensure your new smile lasts a long time is to have great oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth two times a day and floss daily.
You can also use mild whitening toothpaste, which can help reduce the risk of staining to a degree.
Professional dental cleanings can remove stubborn stains you can’t get rid of at home, and make your teeth look whiter. Moreover, they are a great way to reduce your risks for cavities and gum disease!
Coffee, teas, and drinks with artificial colorings are known to stain teeth. While you don’t need to avoid them forever, consider at least drinking them through a straw to limit how much your teeth come into contact with them.
Foods like citruses or tomato sauces can stain the teeth, so be mindful of how often you eat them. It also helps if you brush your teeth right after, or at least cleanse your mouth with tap water to remove all traces.
Smoking or chewing tobacco isn’t good for your health, or the color of your smile. If you want your newly whitened teeth to last, you should try to kick this habit.
If you’re unhappy with how your smile looks, Dr. Shelton Chow can help you access both in-office and at-home professional teeth whitening treatments.
Book a tooth whitening consultation at Dentistry of Gilbert today and find out if these treatments are right for you.
For more information, call us at 480-870-0888 today!
