Have you just completed teeth whitening treatment and want to avoid tooth discoloration over time? We can help. Professional teeth whitening can whiten teeth by multiple shades, and regular maintenance can keep teeth bright. Teeth whitening is a part of the cosmetic dentistry services we offer in our Deerfield, IL, dental office. There are multiple things you can do at home and in our office to keep your teeth bright and healthy after you whiten your smile.
KEEPING YOUR SMILE BRIGHT IN DEERFIELD, IL
There are several things you can do to maintain whitening results. Keep these tips in mind when caring for your smile after professional teeth whitening treatment:
AVOID STAINING FOODS AND DRINKS
Berries, tomato sauces, coffee, tea, and wine can stain the tooth enamel, also known as the outer layer of the tooth. These foods and drinks contain chromogens, or dyes that adhere to the tooth enamel. If you have to drink coffee or tea for that caffeine boost, make sure that you’re brushing and flossing twice a day and drinking enough water.
AVOID SMOKING AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS
Smoking cigarettes, vaping, and using tobacco products is not only harmful to your health but can also stain and yellow the tooth enamel. Nicotine and tar in tobacco seep into the tooth enamel, yellowing, and discoloring teeth. Using tobacco products after whitening treatment can stain your teeth, erasing your progress.
DRINK WATER
It’s always important to drink enough water and stay hydrated. Drinking enough water can also increase saliva production and wash away bacteria, foods, and drinks that can stain the tooth enamel. On average, men should drink 15.5 cups of water a day, and women should drink 11.5 cups of water. Drinking water can also prevent problems like dry mouth, which can lead to bacterial buildup and bad breath.
CARE FOR YOUR SMILE
Brushing and flossing daily will help remove harmful bacteria from your smile. Although most bacteria are good, harmful bacteria create infections and discolor teeth. Bacterial buildup can yellow the tooth enamel over time and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. We recommend that patients floss at least once a day and brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day to keep harmful bacteria away.
VISIT THE DENTIST REGULARLY
We recommend that patients visit the dentist twice a year, or every six months, for routine cleanings and examinations. Dental cleanings, in particular, can help remove surface stains from the teeth. We use gritty toothpaste to brush the teeth and detailed dental tools to remove bacterial buildup from the gums. We also provide whitening touch-ups as needed in our office.
Do you need a whitening touch-up? Contact AH Smiles for whitening treatment today at (847) 230-9703. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Brent Engelberg on our website. Cosmetic dentistry not only improves the smile but helps patients stick to healthy dental habits.