Written by Thana Al-Tahan, Dental Hygienist at Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic
So you finally made the decision to go through with that teeth whitening procedure you’ve been thinking about all year. Your smile looks great, albeit your teeth are a bit sensitive for the time being, but what now? You certainly invested quite a bit of money to get rid of the years of daily tea, coffee, and tobacco stain. How are you going to make sure it was all worthwhile?
Whitening only begins in the dental chair. Onward, it is up to you, the patient, to do your best in maintaining the oh-so-desired pearly whites you have just achieved, while simultaneously maintaining the integrity of your teeth.
It is important to note that bleaching solutions are often very acidic. Acids (whether they come in the form of whitening agents or sour food/drink) temporarily soften enamel. For this reason, it is crucial to hold off on brushing your teeth as it may cause damage to your enamel. Wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth after any whitening treatment.
After whitening gels are removed, your teeth become slightly dehydrated; they will absorb from their surroundings similar to how a sponge does, and that includes color. Make sure your teeth are absorbing color from water, milk, and coconut, rather than tobacco, marinara sauce, and green tea. Your teeth will become very sensitive to stain for the first two days after in-office whitening and for about an hour after each home whitening session.
Lastly, you will want to maintain the shade you have achieved in the long run. Although professional whitening provides you with the most optimal, long lasting results, whitening is not forever; as all the things you may eat, drink, and smoke over the years will change the color of your teeth, inevitably, over the coming years. What stains teeth? Simple. Anything that has the potential to stain a white T-shirt will stain your teeth. If you absolutely must have that cup of Earl Grey in the morning or those cigarettes (which you’re going to quit soon, right?), alternate with sips of water and/or rinse very thoroughly several times after you are finished. Also, it may catch some stares but drink through a straw to prevent excessive contact with your teeth.
Be sure to keep up with your dental exam and cleanings. Throughout your visits, we will monitor the shade of your teeth here at Dr. Michael’s.
May your smile always be a source of confidence!
To schedule your whitening consultation, reach us at 04-3495900, 04-3949433 or 04-3397700 today.
