Getting your teeth whitened usually produces dazzling results. It’s a great investment in yourself to have brighter, whiter teeth. But unfortunately, the results don’t last forever.
While you may count on teeth whitening to last for about a year, the benefits can wear off sooner. You can take some important steps to maintain your teeth for as long as possible after whitening.
When you come in for teeth whitening at Trident Dental, you can count on our professional whitening to give you a dramatically brighter smile. Our dentists share these tips to help you maintain those results.
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1. Avoid consuming things that stain your teeth
Foods and drinks that are dark are also likely to stain your teeth. Some that are notorious for staining teeth include red wine, coffee, tea, and colas. Using a straw may cause less contact with your teeth. Even though they’re healthy foods, blueberries, blackberries, and beets may cause staining, too.
2. Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
There are many good reasons to avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. In addition to the serious health risks of tobacco use, it can also stain your teeth. You’ve probably seen people whose fingertips are stained yellow as a result of smoking—the same can happen to your teeth.
3. Brush your teeth regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep them clean and white. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride and brush your teeth gently. There’s no need to brush your teeth too hard, as doing so could erode the enamel on your teeth. Just brush each tooth in a circular motion, taking about 45 seconds for your whole mouth.
4. Consider brushing with baking soda once a week
Use baking soda, which is a natural tooth whitener, instead of toothpaste to brush your teeth once a week. Make sure you thoroughly rinse your mouth after using baking soda.
5. Eat a tooth-friendly diet
Just like some foods and drinks are more likely to stain your teeth, other foods are good for keeping your teeth clean. Apples are often described as “nature’s toothbrush” because they’re so effective in removing stains from your teeth.
Other foods that are naturally good for your teeth include:
- Celery
- Carrots
- Cheddar cheese
- Strawberries
- Nuts and seeds
- Cauliflower
Most firm, crisp veggies are a good choice for keeping your newly-whitened teeth clean.
Get a touch-up whitening
The results of tooth whitening aren’t meant to last forever. If you notice that your teeth are getting more stained, you may need a touch-up. Call our office in Houston, Texas, or visit us online to make an appointment today.
