Many go for tooth whitening treatment to get that whiter, brighter smile. Whitening treatments help you achieve that dazzling smile that makes you feel and look good. However, these treatments can leave your teeth susceptible to damage and sensitivity if you don’t properly care for them afterward.
If you’re looking for safe teeth whitening treatments in Melbourne, finding an excellent service provider who’ll guarantee value for your money is essential. While a whiter smile boosts your confidence, it’s mandatory to follow the aftercare guidelines to maintain your pearly whites and keep them healthy.
If you’re considering getting your teeth whitened, here are 11 tips on how to care for your teeth after a whitening treatment.
1. Use A Desensitizing Toothpaste
After a tooth whitening treatment, most people feel slightly sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages. This feeling is normal, but it causes quite a bit of discomfort and hampers your daily activities. A desensitizing toothpaste will help reduce the pain from sensitivity after whitening your teeth. You can replace your regular toothpaste with this until the discomfort subsides.
2. Avoid Foods And Drinks That Will Stain Your Teeth
After a tooth whitening treatment, avoid food or drinks that can stain your teeth. Dark-colored berries, tea, coffee, and red wine mostly stain teeth, so it’s best to steer clear of them. Consume light-colored foods (chicken, rice, pasta, or fish) and drinks (water and milk) in the meantime. If you consume something that can stain your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward to reduce staining.
3. Brush And Floss Your Teeth Regularly
While this is mandatory even for people who haven’t whitened their teeth, brushing and flossing are imperative after whitening them. Doing so helps remove any food particles in your teeth that could cause staining or damage. Make sure to follow a strict oral hygiene routine but brush gently to prevent discomfort (if the teeth are sensitive).
4. Use Straws
When you use a straw, the liquid does not touch your teeth; it goes directly to your throat. Straws are handy, especially if you must take beverages that can stain your teeth or cold drinks that can cause discomfort.
5. Avoid Smoking
Are you a smoker? Smoking is not suitable for your teeth, especially after a whitening treatment. Smoking also causes tooth decay and gum disease. Reduce the number of times you smoke after getting your teeth whitened. Limited use of e-cigarettes is allowed but quit smoking altogether if possible.
6. Use A Whitening Toothpaste
A whitening toothpaste will help maintain your whitened teeth. If you’re unsure which one to get, talk to your dentist before deciding. It’s advisable to pick a whitening fluoride toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Use this toothpaste once or twice a week.
7. Use a Mouthguard
A mouthguard isn’t required for everyone who has had teeth whitening treatment. However, for those who grind their teeth while sleeping, a mouth guard will help you to maintain your white teeth and prevent any damage from occurring to them.
8. Get Touch-Ups When Necessary
Whitening your teeth doesn’t just stop at that; maintaining that bright smile may require frequent touch-ups. However, it’s essential not to overdo the touch-ups as they can damage teeth enamel. Taking a break between treatment and touch-ups will give you the best result. Check with your dentist before scheduling a touch-up treatment.
9. Visit Your Dentist
Have a follow-up checkup with your dentist after you get your teeth whitened. Your dentist will give you professional advice on how to look after your newly whitened teeth. The dentist will also be able to examine your teeth and determine if the whitening treatment caused any damage.
10. Rinse Your Mouth
Rinsing will remove food debris in your mouth and help reduce the risk of your teeth getting stained. It’s best to rinse your mouth after eating or drinking anything.
11. Avoid Acidic Food And Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks can cause tooth sensitivity in newly whitened teeth. Other than this, their sour taste can weaken your enamel. Avoiding acidic foods and beverages after a tooth whitening treatment is best.
Maintain Your Pearly Whites
Whitening your teeth gives you a bright smile that makes you look good and boosts your confidence. Proper care is needed to maintain your teeth after whitening them to prevent staining and damage.
Regular brushing, avoiding colored food and drinks, avoiding smoking, and rinsing your mouth will prevent your teeth from getting stained. Avoiding acidic drinks and foods, doing regular touch-ups, and visiting your dentists will ensure that your newly whitened teeth stay in perfect condition. Following these steps will ensure that you maintain your pearly white teeth.
