Many people adore a brilliant white smile, especially after teeth whitening. But how do you keep your teeth looking shiny and white for longer? Here are some simple and effective tips recommended by a dentist in Coral Gables that can help you maintain whitening results for a long time.
1. Watch What You Eat and Drink
After teeth whitening, many foods and drinks might stain and discolor teeth. A variety of foods and drinks that may discolor your teeth include berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Coffee, tea, soda, and red wine drinks are well-known to cause most stains.
To protect your whitened teeth:
- Try to reduce the amount of these foods and beverages that you consume.
- If you consume stain-causing food and drinks, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after their intake to help clean the staining particles before they can settle on your teeth.
On the other hand, eating the best foods for white teeth, like crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, celery, and carrots, can naturally clean your teeth and help keep them white. These foods function as scrubbers and help remove plaque.
2. Brush and Floss Regularly
One of the effective ways to keep your teeth appearing brighter is by brushing and flossing teeth regularly. Brush at least twice a day to remove plaque, food particles, and more from the mouth. Flossing once a day will help to clean between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
When brushing:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your gums or enamel (the hard surface of your teeth).
- Brush gently for about two minutes.
- Don’t forget to clean your tongue, as bacteria on your tongue can cause bad breath and affect your oral health.
3. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening pastes will assist you in keeping your teeth white by eliminating surface stains. These toothpastes are not as strong as professional whitening treatments, but they can be helpful for everyday maintenance.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Even if you follow all the right steps at home, professional dental cleanings are still important. Dentists use special tools to remove plaque and tartar (a hard buildup that brushing can’t remove) from your teeth. These cleanings help keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.
Your dentist may also recommend touch-up whitening treatments during your regular visits. These will help your smile freshen up if your teeth start yellowing.
5. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and tobacco are the main causes of tooth stains. Tobacco has the tendency to make your teeth turn yellow or brownish, and it may be hard to remove those colors.
Other than discoloration, smoking causes severe health issues, including gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting the habit of smoking will ensure that your teeth are bright and ensure general good health.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is good for your body, but it’s also great for your teeth. Water helps clean food particles, bacteria, and acids that can cause stains or damage your teeth. It’s especially important to drink water after eating or drinking items that can stain your teeth, like coffee or tomato sauce.
Keeping your mouth hydrated with water also helps produce saliva, which is your body’s natural way of cleaning your teeth.
7. Touch-Up Treatments
After your teeth whitening in Coral Gable treatment, it’s normal for the brightness to fade a little over time. To keep your smile white, you may need touch-up treatments. Here’s how they help:
- Touch-ups keep your teeth bright: Whitening doesn’t last forever. A touch-up will refresh your smile and bring back the brightness.
- At-home touch-up kits: Some dentists provide at-home kits that let you whiten your teeth easily from the comfort of your own home. These kits often come with custom-made trays and whitening gel.
- In-office touch-ups: For a stronger and quicker result, visit your dentist for a professional touch-up. They use a stronger whitening gel that can make your teeth appear radiant in a session.
- Timing matters: You might need touch-up treatments every 6 months to a year, depending on how quickly your teeth start to lose their whiteness.
8. Use a Straw
Using a straw can help reduce the contact that drinks have with your teeth. This is especially helpful for drinks that are known to stain, like coffee, tea, or soda. By using a straw, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without worrying as much about your teeth turning yellow.
9. Avoid Consumption of Acidic Foods
Acidic foods, like oranges or lemons and vinegar, can erode your enamel. When your enamel becomes thin, it’s easier for stains to stick to your teeth. You do not have to completely avoid these foods but consume them in moderation.
If you consume acidic foods, wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth. Brushing after an acidic meal may cause erosion to your enamel because the hard layer weakens at such times.
Visit Gables Sedation and Family Dentistry Today!
Are you searching for a reliable dental office near you? Then consider Gables Sedation and Family Dentistry, as it provides gentle and professional dental care for the whole family. Our team helps anxious patients feel more comfortable during their clinic visits. We offer regular examinations, cleanings, treatments, and more to keep your teeth healthy. Our goal is to help you maintain a bright, healthy smile in a stress-free environment. Schedule your appointment with us today!
