There is nothing like a smile to spread happiness, positivity, confidence, and hope. And thanks to professional teeth whitening procedures, there is no reason to let discolored or stained teeth stand in the way of flashing those pearly whites. In fact, by 2028, the North American market size for in-office teeth whitening products is poised to reach US$ 5,818.23 million. However, you should also know how to keep teeth white after whitening, as a bit of care and precaution can go a long way in preserving and improving oral health.
Follow these 12 tips at least 48 hours after treatment to maintain white teeth post-teeth whitening.
Table of Contents
Tips for Maintaining White Teeth
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Don’t Indulge in Acidic Foods and Drinks
Avoid lemons, oranges, gooseberries, pickles, or any other food that tastes acidic, as they can make your enamel weak. Skip juices made from citrusy fruits, colas, and sodas, too, can stain your teeth, erode the enamel, and cause cavities.
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Avoid Caffeine
While tea and coffee might be your go-to beverages for that daily energy kick, skip them as part of the teeth whitening aftercare regime. They tend to stain easily. The same goes for dark chocolate, which contains caffeine, too. Opt for plain warm milk or warm water instead of caffeine-laden drinks.
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Skip Dark Sauces and Foods
Barbecue, soy, and red pasta sauces might affect the brightness of your teeth, so go for white sauces instead. At mealtimes, add light-colored foods like eggs, white pasta, cauliflower, chicken breast, rice, fish, and peeled potatoes. Avoid red grapes, beets, berries, and any food containing artificial colors.
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Drink Through a Straw
Using a straw is the best way to keep teeth white while drinking. The liquid will go straight to your throat without touching your front teeth. Keep a set of reusable straws handy if you are traveling.
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Drink Water in Between Staining Beverages
Post-treatment, if you drink something that stains teeth fast, have some water afterward to wash your teeth surfaces off dark liquids. After 48 hours, when you gradually return to drinking coffee, tea, cola, or red wines, practice moderation and drink water between every sip of your favorite beverage.
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Rinse After You Eat Anything
Eating a small candy or a few chips may not require brushing afterward. However, particles from such foods might stick to your teeth and impact the whiteness. So, rinse every time you eat something, and use an antiseptic mouthwash. Carry a handy bottle of the same in your bag to practice teeth whitening aftercare on the go.
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Brush Regularly
Brushing after every meal is essential if you want to maintain white teeth. Ask your dentist about the quality of toothbrushes and toothpaste you should use for the best results and protection of your enamel. Thorough brushing can dislodge food particles stuck between teeth or in the back of your mouth, preventing caries and other problems. However, avoid brushing hard, as it can damage the enamel.
Your dentist might also recommend whitening toothpaste or something containing hydrogen peroxide for a fresh, bright smile. If you drink anything acidic or contain caffeine, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing so that the acidity doesn’t spread.
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Floss Daily
A toothbrush might not always efficiently clean the gaps between your teeth daily. Floss well to prevent plaque buildup at the base of your teeth and between them. Flossing is an integral part of teeth whitening aftercare as it can keep tooth decay (which affects 90% of American adults) and gum diseases (around 50% of American adults) at bay.
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Give Alcohol a Miss
While doing away with alcoholic drinks is the best move to stay healthy, if you really feel like raising your spirits, opt for clear options like vodka, white rum, or gin. Use a straw to be on the safe side. Remember to avoid red wine as it easily stains teeth.
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Give Up Smoking
Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco products can cause discoloration due to the presence of tar and nicotine. These habits can also cause bad breath and lead to other health problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disorders, and even cancers. So, the best way to keep teeth white and detox your body is by quitting tobacco usage.
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Eat Crunchy Veggies and Fruits
Carrots, celery, and apples are not only chock full of vitamins and minerals, but their crunchy texture also scrubs away bacteria and plaque from the surface of your teeth. These fruits and veggies also boost saliva production, which protects your pearls from stains.
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Ask About At-Home Solutions
If you are wondering how to maintain white teeth for a long time after undergoing an in-office procedure, ask the dentist about homely or natural solutions, including teeth whitening kits, that you can try regularly or periodically. They will be able to suggest safe and sustainable options.
Now that you know how to keep teeth white after whitening, follow the above tips closely to see bright results even after the first 48 hours. After discussing your diet and lifestyle, Ask your dentist how frequently you need touch-up treatments. Go for periodic checkups to prevent problems like tooth decay, broken teeth, gum infections, enamel erosion, and more. Regular cleaning sessions at the dentist can also keep your teeth white for a long time.
If you want a trusted dental clinic, visit Anoka Dental today to learn more about our teeth whitening services and choose what is best. Call us at (763) 421-4002 to schedule an appointment, and we will light up your smile in no time.
Our address: Anoka Dental
12 Bridge Square, #106 Anoka, Minnesota, 55303, United States
Phone no: (763) 421-4002
