A radiant, traffic-stopping smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. That’s why cosmetic dentistry procedures have become so popular. These treatments (like teeth whitening) offer a quick and effective way to achieve a brilliant smile without compromising your oral health or budget.
Are you looking for a quick and easy way to upgrade your appearance? Teeth whitening in Naperville, IL, can help! Schedule a whitening consultation with Thomas F. Brown, DDS, today to see how we can help you achieve your dream smile. Just call (630) 369-3120 to get started!
If you’ve recently brightened your smile, then you may be wondering how to preserve your pearly whites. Here, we tell you how to maintain your smile after whitening to get years out of your results.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The foundation of a long-lasting, white smile is a solid oral hygiene routine. This means:
- Brushing after meals (or at least twice daily)
- Flossing every day
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash often
Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Highly pigmented foods (like coffee, berries, and red wine) are notorious for marring the results of teeth whitening. While completely avoiding these kinds of foods and drinks may be challenging, you can minimize their impact by drinking through a straw or rinsing your mouth with water immediately after consumption.
Quit Smoking
The tar and nicotine in tobacco can stain teeth over time, making it challenging to maintain a white smile. Quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but also contributes to the longevity of your teeth whitening results.
Choose Whitening-Friendly Foods
Foods like apples, carrots, and celery are naturally abrasive. This means that they can help remove surface stains, leading to a brighter and whiter smile.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of your teeth and catch any potential issues early. Your dentist can also provide professional cleanings and touch-up treatments to maintain the brightness of your smile.
Use Whitening Touch-Up Products
At-home whitening touch-up products can help refresh your smile and extend whitening results. These products may include whitening trays or pens. However, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s guidelines to avoid overuse and sensitivity.
Hydrate for a Healthy Mouth
Water helps flush away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to dental stains. This means that drinking plenty of water during the day helps keep your smile looking its best while also keeping your body functioning optimally.
Invest in a Quality Toothbrush
Dental professionals recommend using a toothbrush with soft, flexible bristles only, as hard bristles can damage tooth enamel. Additionally, dentists recommend electric toothbrushes because they provide a more thorough clean and help prevent stains from settling on teeth better than manual brushes.
Mindful Teeth Whitening Practices
If you’re using at-home whitening kits, follow the instructions carefully. Overusing whitening products can lead to tooth sensitivity and damage to the enamel. Stick to the recommended application frequency and duration to achieve optimal results without compromising your oral health.
Teeth Whitening in Naperville, IL
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine and making mindful choices, you can extend the lifespan of your teeth-whitening results for years. Want to learn more or schedule a touch-up treatment? Contact Thomas F. Brown, DDS, online here or call (630) 369-3120 to schedule an appointment now!