Cosmetic Dentistry: Maintaining Teeth Whitening Results

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular procedures used in cosmetic dentistry. It is an effective way to improve the way your smile looks in a short amount of time. A single professional teeth whitening session can make your teeth eight shades whiter. A few more follow-up treatments and your teeth will be the exact shade of white you want them to be.

How teeth whitening treatments are used in cosmetic dentistry

The teeth whitening treatments used in cosmetic dentistry can be used to eliminate most types of stains, including:

• Discoloration caused by aging
• Tobacco stains
• Stains caused by coffee and other tannin-rich foods

Teeth whitening treatments are not an effective way to remove stains caused by tooth decay or fluorosis. Such stains will need to be covered up with oral restorations like veneers or crowns.

Maintaining the results of teeth whitening treatments

The battle for pearly white teeth does not end once your teeth have reached the desired shade of white. Teeth are constantly exposed to things that lead to discoloration and stains, like the tannins (coloring agents) in foods and habits like smoking. Over time, the combination of all these things will chip away at the results of whitening treatments.

Here are some simple ways to maintain the color of your teeth after teeth whitening:

1. Stay away from foods and beverages that stain teeth

Foods like berries, coffee and tomato sauce are known to stain teeth. Consuming such foods and beverages will eventually lead to stains forming. Keep such foods to a minimum and try to brush with a whitening toothpaste after consuming them.

2. Consume foods that promote healthy teeth

Foods like apples and celery are great for teeth. They promote the production of saliva which neutralizes acids in the mouth that can damage tooth enamel, which makes teeth more susceptible to staining. Dairy products like cheese are also good for teeth. They contain phosphorus and calcium which help to keep teeth healthy and stain free.

3. Brush after meals

Brushing after meals helps to eliminate tannins and food particles from teeth surfaces. Most foods and beverages will chip away at the results of whitening treatments over time. Brushing after every meal will keep teeth free of particles that can stain them and fight off tooth decay.

When it is not possible to brush after meals, trying using mouthwash to rinse the mouth or use water.

4. Use straws more often

Using a straw to consume beverages that stain teeth keeps the contact between the two to a minimum. It might feel odd to drink coffee with a straw, but it is worth the adjustment period. Sodas contain artificial coloring agents so always use a straw to drink them.

The bottom line

Teeth whitening treatments need to be followed up with maintenance treatments as new stains begin to form. Call or visit our Walnut Creek clinic to learn more about how maintenance treatments can help you to keep the results of your whitening treatments.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistrywalnutcreek.com or call Advanced Dentistry Of Walnut Creek at (925) 937-2273 for an appointment in our Walnut Creek office.

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