What You Should and Should Not Do After Teeth Whitening
Posted on: 10 April 2018
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Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dental procedure today. It restores the white colour of your discoloured teeth, giving you a perfect smile. However, how long the effects of teeth whitening last depends on how well you treat your teeth after a teeth-whitening procedure. Part of doing this involves the understanding of what to do and what to avoid after the procedure. If you have just had your first teeth-whitening procedure, you are likely to experience a few problems regarding aftercare. However, here is a guide to help you.
Stick to A White Diet
Your diet after a teeth-whitening procedure is extremely imperative to the success of the treatment. It is important to understand that teeth whitening leaves your teeth porous for a considerable number of days, making them highly susceptible to staining. Therefore, be extremely watchful over what you eat. Some of the foods to avoid include carrots, orange fruits, red sauces and tomatoes, beets, and chocolate. You can, however, eat white meat (fish, chicken, turkey, etc.), bananas, and cauliflower. When it comes to drinks and beverages, avoid tea, coffee, lemonade, orange juice, energy drinks, red wine and other colorful drinks. You can instead drink water or milk.
Do Not Drink Extremely Hot/Cold Liquids
Extremely cold or hot liquids will cause temperature changes, often known as hot and cold cycles. This will lead to the expansion and contraction of your teeth, making it easier for stains to penetrate. You are advised to cut down on your consumption of such liquid,s but if you must have them, consider using a straw to reduce the time of contact between the liquids and your teeth.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking is considered as one of the major contributors to teeth discolouration. That's because tobacco contains nicotine, a great ingredient for teeth discolouration. In order for you to keep your teeth white for a longer period, you need to stop or cut back on habits that led to the discolouration in the first place. Therefore, if you cannot stop smoking completely, consider lessening your frequency.
Cut Back on Acidic Foods/Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks such as carbonated drinks, soda, lemonade or grape juice tend to break down your teeth's enamel, opening up the pores. Porous teeth will be more susceptible to staining. Therefore, similar to hot and cold liquids, consider using a straw. What's more, if possible, remember to brush your teeth immediately after drinking such drinks.
Contact a dentist for additional advice.