There’s nothing quite like the confidence boost that comes with a freshly whitened smile. At Face Dental, we love seeing our patients leave the practice looking and feeling their best, but keeping that brightness lasting for as long as possible takes a little care at home.
Here are our top tips for maintaining your whiter smile and protecting your teeth after a whitening treatment.
Be mindful of what you eat and drink
In the first 48 hours after whitening, your teeth are more porous and can easily absorb stains. Try to avoid dark coloured foods and drinks such as:
- Coffee and tea
- Red wine
- Tomato-based sauces
- Dark berries
As a rule of thumb, if it would stain a white T-shirt, it can probably stain your teeth!
If you do enjoy these foods later on, rinse your mouth with water afterwards or brush gently to reduce surface staining.
Don’t forget your straw
When drinking tea, coffee, or fizzy drinks, use a straw to reduce contact with your teeth. It’s a simple trick, but it helps prevent staining and enamel wear, especially if you like to sip slowly throughout the day.
Maintain a strong oral hygiene routine
Daily care makes a big difference. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash helps prevent plaque build-up, which can dull your smile over time. If you can, use an electric toothbrush for a more thorough clean.
Top up your whitening as advised
Your dentist may recommend occasional whitening top-ups to maintain your results safely. At Face Dental, we provide professional whitening kits and can guide you on how often to use them for the best and safest results.
Avoid using over-the-counter whitening products without advice, they can be abrasive or too harsh for your enamel.
See your hygienist regularly
Professional hygiene appointments are the best way to keep your smile looking fresh. Your hygienist will remove surface stains and plaque that brushing alone can’t reach, helping your whitening last longer and keeping your mouth healthy.
Stay hydrated
Water is your best friend when it comes to oral health. Drinking plenty of water not only rinses away food particles and stains, but also supports saliva production, your body’s natural defence against discolouration and decay.
Enjoy your brighter, more confident smile
A whiter smile can make you feel more confident and refreshed, and with a few simple habits, you can keep that brightness lasting long after your treatment.
If you’re ready to brighten your smile or want to maintain your results safely, book an appointment with the Face Dental team today. We’re here to help you achieve and maintain a smile you’ll love to show off.