Teeth Whitening Aftercare: How to Make Your Results Last

One of the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments available, teeth whitening leaves patients with a fresher smile that fills them with confidence. But newly brightened teeth require care and maintenance; otherwise, they could lose their new shine. 

 

So, how can you best look after your pearly whites? The experts at Kiln Lane Dental explain throughout this blog.       

Why Is Teeth Whitening Aftercare Necessary?

Although teeth whitening is a safe treatment, the process can leave small pores in your tooth enamel, making your teeth temporarily vulnerable to staining. This is why it’s essential to follow the correct dental aftercare for whitening. 

 

With this in mind, what can you do to keep your teeth fresher and brighter for longer?

Top Tips for Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Try adhering to the following suggestions to keep your newly whitened teeth whiter for longer:

  1. Avoid Drinking Teeth Staining Foods and Drinks

Although we may feel they’re hard to live without, certain foods and beverages can harm our teeth over time. The most common culprits for staining newly whitened teeth are:

 

  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Dark sauces, like soy or barbecue sauce
  • Red wine
  • Fizzy drinks
  • Red pasta sauce
  • Bright-coloured berries

 

  1. Stay Clear of Acidic Foods

Acidic foods can weaken your enamel, ultimately leaving your teeth more susceptible to staining. So, while lemons, oranges or limes may not directly discolour your teeth, they can still contribute to staining. 

  1. Use Straws

After receiving teeth whitening treatment, it’s good practice to use straws when drinking. Drinking through a straw prevents the liquid from passing through your teeth and staining them over time.

  1. Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily

Brushing your teeth two times per day not only helps to keep your teeth white but also ensures your oral health is in excellent condition. However, make sure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent enamel damage or gum irritation. 

  1. Floss Between Meals

Flossing helps to prevent plaque build-up for a healthier mouth, but also removes surface stains and trapped food particles that can cause discolouration. So, after meal times, be sure to floss using floss thread, floss picks or a water flosser. 

  1. Quit Smoking 

Finally, our last top tip for making your whitening results last is to stop smoking if you’re currently a smoker. Smoking can discolour the porous enamel – the tar and nicotine within cigarettes are the main cause of smoking-related tooth stains. So, if you want your teeth to maintain their sparkle, it’s best to kick the habit. 

 

Contact Us About Teeth Whitening 

If you’re looking for proven teeth whitening with tried and tested results, why not book in for a consultation at Kiln Lane Dental? We provide both home and in-practice whitening, including Zoom and Enlighten Whitening.