If you have discolored or stained teeth, professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile by several shades. During an in-office procedure, a dentist will carefully paint peroxide gel onto the teeth and activate the solution with a blue LED light, providing a noticeably whiter smile after just one appointment. However, proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring long-lasting results. Here's how to keep your teeth white after your procedure. 

How to Care for Teeth After Whitening

1. Brush & Floss Regularly 

Dentists recommend brushing twice and flossing once daily to remove plaque, acids, and food and beverage residues that may cause stains and cavities. Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can re-mineralize enamel, making tooth surfaces stronger and less susceptible to absorbing substances that might produce stains and discoloration. If you're away from home and don't have access to a toothbrush and floss, swish your mouth with water to loosen and remove staining fluids and particles. 

2. Avoid Staining Foods & Beverages 

Foods and drinks may contain pigmented substances such as tannins and dyes, which can stain and discolor teeth. Among the most common culprits are coffee, tea, and wine, which contain tannins, along with dark-colored berries, tomato sauces, and candy, which include natural dyes and artificial food colorings. Following your teeth whitening procedure, avoid consuming these substances to keep your teeth bright. 

3. Prepare for Sensitivity 

Peroxide in professional whitening gels can temporarily soften the enamel, causing you to experience sensitivity and slight discomfort while eating, drinking, and brushing. Avoid consuming hot and cold foods and beverages for the first several days or weeks after treatment since the temperature of these substances may irritate nerves in the inner tooth layers. Additionally, use a brush with soft bristles and gentle up-and-down strokes to minimize discomfort. 

4. Get Checkups & Touch-Ups

A dentist may monitor the color and condition of your teeth during routine dental cleanings, which you should schedule twice annually. During these appointments, your dental care provider can make sure your teeth look uniformly white, providing touch-ups in the event that pigmented spots or stains develop. Additionally, they can ensure your enamel remains strong following your whitening procedure to minimize sensitivity and discomfort. 

Enjoy a brighter smile with help from Nelson Hatanaka, D.D.S. This dentist provides in-office teeth whitening along with routine dental cleanings and exams to patients throughout Honolulu, HI. Call (808) 395-1922 to book an appointment with this family dentist, and visit the website to learn more about how they can protect your teeth, mouth, and gums.