Getting the Most Out of Your Whitening Procedure

   A sparkling white smile can be the key to a more youthful and vibrant appearance.  There are multiple methods out there, such as, in office, and at home whitening. When making a decision about bleaching treatments you need to consider your current level of tooth sensitivity,  budget, and desired results. After your bleaching treatment is complete it is important to follow at home instructions to avoid relapse. 

    Many patients feel frustrated when their whitening results do not last for the long haul.  However, the same habits that lead to tooth discoloration initially could cause a relapse once your whitening procedures are complete.  Try out tips and tricks for maintaining that healthy white smile.

• Avoid dark foods and drinks:  The first few weeks after your whitening procedure you teeth are more susceptible to picking up stain. Anything that can stain your shirt can also stain your teeth. Red wine, teas, dark sodas, dark juices and cigarettes can all seep into the newly opened tubules of your teeth and cause them to discolor rapidly.

• Eat teeth cleansing foods:  Teeth can be naturally cleansed by foods that are firm and crisp such as apples, carrots and celery.  When you cannot get to a toothbrush this is a great alternative

• Don’t forget to rinse: Water is nature’s great neutralizer.  After consuming dark substances rinse with water to cleaning your mouth of dyes and other food debris.

• Eat more strawberries: The malic acid contained in strawberries has natural properties that contribute to tooth whitening.

• Gargle with apple cider vinegar:  This can be done before brushing.  Vinegar is a natural cleansing agent that can help remove stains, kill bacteria and also whiten your teeth.

• Wear red: Red lipstick gives the appearance of a whiter smile by comparison. Avoid getting lipstick on your teeth after the first few days of treatment.

• Brush with baking soda:  In addition to normal brushing, using baking soda once a week can brush your teeth can help keep your teeth sparkling.  The abrasives in baking soda can help remove surface stain and maintain your pretty white smile. Make sure you do not swallow the baking soda or brush too harshly.

• Use your take home bleaching tray: Once any remaining tooth sensitivity from your in office treatment has disappeared you may use your take home bleaching trays.   Make sure to use this product as directed in order to avoid further tooth sensitivity. A calcium phosphate/sodium fluoride toothpaste such as Remin Pro may be recommended if sensitivity persists. 

• Attend regular check ups: Sometimes the plaque or build up on your teeth can harden and form tarter.  Additional debris on your teeth can be magnets for stain. Make sure that you attend your check up every six months to remove excess build up and evaluate your post whitening success.  Call our office today at (703) 499-9779 for your post whitening check-up!