Teeth whitening is now one of the most popular general dentistry procedures in the United States. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, about 90% of patients request white teeth through this easy and affordable in-office procedure that brightens and whitens your smile.
Want to maintain the beautiful results you get from teeth whitening from your Monroe dentist? Here are 7 ways to keep your white teeth.
1. Avoid Dark Liquids
Dark liquids like coffee, cola, red wine, and tea are among the biggest tooth staining culprits. These drinks all have chromogens or color pigments that bind to the outer, white enamel of your teeth and cause unsightly stains.
2. Avoid Tobacco
Tar and nicotine in cigarettes cause stubborn stains on your teeth. While nicotine itself is colorless, unlike tar, it turns into a yellowish substance when it mixes with oxygen.
3. Check for Tooth-Staining Medications
Some medications you may take may cause tooth darkening, including some antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, and antipsychotics. While you may not be able to do anything about your medications, you may want to discuss this side effect with your doctor.
4. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
Your teeth will be sensitive shortly after your whitening procedure, but afterward a whitening toothpaste can help you remove and avoid surface stains on your teeth. Whitening toothpastes have mild abrasives that gently scrub the teeth, but they will not change the color of your teeth.
5. Brush and Floss Daily
Daily brushing and flossing helps keep your teeth clean and healthy. Use a toothpaste that protects against yellowing if you drink dark-colored liquids like coffee to fight stains.
6. Drink with a Straw
An easy way to fight stains while enjoying dark-colored drinks like cola is drinking with a straw. A straw will keep most of the stain-causing dyes in your drink away from your teeth.
7. Visit Your Dentist
Aside from regular oral care and taking steps to protect your teeth, be sure to visit your Monroe dentist for regular checkups. Your dentist can polish away surface stains to fight discoloration and help you keep your teeth white in the long run with a custom tray for at-home bleaching.
Interested in achieving your whitest, brightest smile ever? Contact our Monroe dentist office today to schedule an appointment for whitening and learn more about how to maintain your results.