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From take-home trays to one-hour in-office bleaching, there are many advanced teeth whitening methods that can significantly brighten your smile. But as powerful as the results may be, no whitening method lasts forever, as the natural aging process of your teeth will eventually cause discoloration. Still, with regular care, you may be able to extend the life of your dental enhancement and maintain pearly whites for longer. Follow these tips to protect the results of your teeth whitening.

Guide to Protecting Teeth Whitening Results

Watch What You Eat

There are plenty of foods that can diminish the effects of whitening by staining teeth. For example, red tomato sauce and chocolate are common culprits behind discoloration. Citrus fruits also have a high acidity that can be harsh on tooth enamel.

While you’ll have to cut out a few things from your diet to keep the white lasting longer, there are a few things you can add to your meals to boost dental appearance. For example, the malic acid in strawberries can help protect teeth. Chewing on apples can also help produce tooth-protecting saliva and help scrub away plaque that can cause discoloration.

Drink With Caution

teeth whiteningDark drinks—such as coffee, fruit juices, and red wine—can leave stains on teeth and should generally be avoided after whitening. However, if you want to indulge in these beverages, you can help keep the liquid off your teeth by drinking through a straw. Also be sure to rinse or brush after consuming any liquids that might stain teeth.

Stop Smoking

Getting your teeth whitened can be a perfect opportunity to stop smoking, as the components found in cigarettes are known to yellow teeth. In fact, if you smoke on a regular basis, you may subject your teeth to yellow staining that can’t always be corrected by teeth whitening.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

One of the most important steps to keeping up your bright smile is to practice good dental hygiene regularly. Brushing and flossing correctly twice each day is critical to removing plaque that can be a major source of discoloration. And if you use whitening toothpaste, you may be able to enhance the effects of your treatment even further.

It’s also important to see your dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings. Not only does this routine dental care help reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, but it also helps remove tough tartar buildup that can yellow teeth.

 

Offering comprehensive cosmetic and general dentistry services to patients in Northern Kentucky, Tri-State Dental Care can help you discover the best ways to enhance your smile, including extensive teeth whitening treatments and veneers. To find out how this trusted family dentist of Fort Wright, KY, can help brighten your teeth and protect your dental health, call (859) 426-2790 and schedule a convenient appointment.

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