Have you recently had your teeth professionally whitened by a cosmetic dentist? While you’re probably loving the way your smile looks, you might be wondering how to preserve the new vibrancy of your teeth. Cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening are an investment in your wellbeing and appearance, and investments should be protected. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can help stave off the developments of new tooth stains. Following are some easy-to-follow tips.
Avoid Dark Foods and Drinks
Permanent, extrinsic tooth stains develop after years of exposure to dark foods and drinks. Items like berries, wine, and coffee can contribute to new stains after a teeth whitening treatment. Using tobacco also contributes to tooth discoloration. Avoiding staining agents like these can greatly prolong the life of your newly whitened teeth.
Use a Straw
If you are drinking something dark in color like a cola or coffee, use a straw. A straw will help push the liquid to the back of the mouth, thereby limiting the exposure of staining agents on tooth structure. Limiting exposure to staining agents will extend the life of your whitening treatment.
Brush Your Teeth After Meals
Brushing your teeth after meals is one way to control the effect of dark foods and beverages have on teeth. While brushing is great for keeping the surfaces of teeth clean from staining particles, be sure to time your brushing for at least 20 minutes after your meal.
If you brush immediately after eating, you run the risk of damaging your teeth because they are in a softened state. After we eat, bacteria will begin to feed on food particles and in the process of feeding, bacteria will release acid as a by-product. Acid strips away the mineral content of tooth enamel.
Drink Water Throughout the Day
Water is the best thing you can drink for your general wellbeing and oral health. Drinking water will also help guard against tooth stains. Water dilutes and rinses away food particles and debris. Rinsing and diluting staining agents will help prevent new staining.
If you are interested in cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening, call our practice to reserve a smile makeover consultation with our cosmetic dentist.
