Tooth Whitening After-Care Tips to Know

Tooth Whitening After-Care Tips to Know

While over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products may be popular, they won’t give you results as impressive as those you’ll get at a dentist’s office. Professional teeth whitening can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one quick visit! Plus, you’ll receive all of the post-whitening after-care tips you need to know, including the following.

Practice good oral hygiene.

Dentists always recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. However, after you have your teeth whitened, it’s particularly important to practice good oral hygiene to preserve your results. For at least the first 24 hours, you should brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush after each time you eat or drink something other than water.

Avoid smoking cigarettes.

The use of cigarettes or chewing tobacco will stain your teeth and ruin the results from your whitening appointment. Many patients who have recently quit smoking decide to schedule a teeth whitening treatment. This is a great way to reward your remarkable accomplishment! However, make sure that you don’t give into your cravings afterward, as the tobacco will stain your teeth a yellowish-brown color. Consider talking to your doctor about using safe, FDA-approved nicotine replacement products, such as the patch.

Exercise caution while consuming pigmented foods and beverages.

Pigmented foods and beverages will stain your pearly whites. Some dentists recommend sticking only to non-pigmented foods for at least the first 24 hours after a whitening appointment. Some examples of food you can eat include cauliflower, white potatoes, bananas, vanilla yogurt, and pasta with a white cheese sauce. Some examples of highly pigmented foods include berries, marinara sauce, red wine, soy sauce, tea, and coffee.

If you desire a dazzling smile you’re proud to show off, schedule a teeth whitening appointment at the cosmetic dentistry office of John R. Carson, DDS. We offer in-office whitening and professional-grade take-home kits for your convenience. You can reach us in Tucson at (520) 514-7203 to schedule your visit.