Congratulations! Perhaps you’ve just had your teeth whitened, made an appointment for teeth whitening, or are considering getting your teeth whitened. In any case, teeth whitening is a great first step, or foundation, for maintaining a bright smile in Los Gatos. You can build on this foundation by taking the following additional steps:
- Doing immediate aftercare post-whitening
- Following a teeth-smart diet
- Practicing great oral hygiene
- Getting regular check-ups
Let’s go over these in more detail.
Teeth Whitening Aftercare Tips
First of all, always follow your dentist’s post-whitening care instructions. After teeth whitening in Los Gatos, you should not smoke for 48 hours. Research indicates that smoking reduces whitening effects. It also makes your enamel more porous and open to staining.
Your white teeth will last longer if you avoid foods and beverages like wine, beer, coffee, red sauce, and beets, as they’ll stain your teeth. You should also avoid acid-based food and drinks, such as soda, pickles, and citrusy fruits like oranges and lemons. They leave your teeth more susceptible to staining. You can also use straws when drinking so that the liquid mostly bypasses your teeth.
Oral Hygiene Practices
You’ve heard your dentist say it (probably many times), and it’s likely been ingrained in your mind. Here’s your quick reminder: brush twice a day, wait 30 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods to brush (because they temporarily make your teeth more porous), floss daily, and use a whitening toothpaste to get rid of surface stains. However, you should consult your dentist about how often to use it. If you’re already practicing good oral hygiene, great! Keep it up. If you’ve let it slip in the past, this is the perfect time to step up your game.
Oral health starts with these daily practices, but they should also be paired with regular check-ups and dental cleanings.
Regular Checkups and Dental Cleanings
Keeping your teeth white works in parallel with keeping your teeth healthy. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, along with stains from your teeth. They also provide the opportunity for your dental team to catch any issues before they become more serious. Preventive care saves you time, dental pain, and money.
At your checkup or cleaning, you can also talk to your dentist about using a whitening touch-up kit for at-home maintenance between whitening appointments.
Ready to Maintain Your Bright Smile in Los Gatos?
Whether you’re ready to schedule your first teeth whitening appointment or need to book your next check-up, our dental team is here to help you maintain your smile goals. Give us a call to schedule your teeth whitening appointment or routine cleaning. A radiant smile is just one call away!