Professional teeth whitening can make a noticeable difference in your smile; however, it’s important to note that those brighter results aren’t completely maintenance-free. Teeth naturally pick up new stains over time from foods, drinks, and everyday habits. Fortunately, being mindful of what you eat, drink, and do every day can make a big difference in how long your teeth stay bright, slowing discoloration and keeping your smile looking fresh for longer.
Pay Attention to What You Eat and Drink
Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, berries, tomato sauce, and other deeply pigmented foods are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to tooth stains. You don’t have to completely swear off your favorites; however, moderation can help. Try using a straw for stain-causing beverages to limit contact with your front teeth, and rinse your mouth with water after drinking something dark. Even a quick sip of water can help wash away some of the pigments that would otherwise sit on your enamel and cause stains.
Stay Consistent With Your Oral Hygiene
It sounds simple, but your regular oral hygiene routine matters. Plaque and surface stains can make your freshly whitened teeth look dull faster. To slow the discoloration of your teeth, brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once daily. Keeping up with professional dental cleanings can also remove hardened buildup and surface stains that brushing alone cannot address.
Say Goodbye to Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products can quickly work against your whitening results. Nicotine and tar from smoking leaves yellow or brown stains on your enamel, making your teeth look darker over time. Avoiding tobacco helps protect the brightness of your smile while offering plenty of other benefits for not only your oral health but your overall health.
Touch Up Your Smile When Needed
Even with excellent oral hygiene and healthy habits, your teeth whitening results will gradually fade. A few smarter habits, such as rinsing after coffee, staying on top of brushing and flossing, and scheduling touch-ups when necessary, can help you hold onto that fresh-from-the-dentist brightness for much longer. Additionally, your dentist may recommend coming in for occasional touch-up treatments depending on the whitening method used and how quickly your teeth tend to stain. By protecting your teeth from new stains, maintaining good oral hygiene, and scheduling touch-ups when needed, you can enjoy your noticeably brighter smile for much longer.
