Tips and Tricks to Extend the Results of Your Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. Some people choose to whiten their teeth at home but having it done professionally gives your teeth a noticeably brighter appearance. And it’s much safer.

Here at Duval Orthodontics, located in Warner Robins and Albany, Georgia, Dr. J.A. Duval and his team want you to get the most out of your teeth whitening procedure. So we created this guide offering tips to help you extend your teeth whitening results.

How long does teeth whitening last?

The results of in-office teeth whitening are noticeable right away. As for how long these results last depends on many factors. 

For some, teeth whitening results can last as long as one year, while other people’s results may not last as long.

Certain medications can change the color of your teeth, like high blood pressure medication and antihistamines. These types of medications are often ongoing, so those taking them may encourage discolored teeth sooner.

Dietary habits and genetics can also play a role in your teeth whitening results.

How to extend your teeth whitening results

Extending the results of your teeth whitening doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Our team at Duval Orthodontics offers the following tips to keep your smile whiter, longer.

Avoid stain-causing foods and drinks

The biggest culprits for staining teeth are darker foods and drinks, such as:

• Coffee
• Red wine
• Tea
• Chocolate
• Blueberries
• Red sauces, like marinara
• Acidic foods (citrus fruits, vinegar)
• Cranberry juice or grape juice
• Soy sauce

Darker foods and drinks stain your teeth because they contain dark pigments that can slip through the microscopic cracks and pores of your enamel. 

Acidic foods can also cause tooth discoloration because they erode your enamel. Your dentin — the yellow layer beneath your enamel — is more noticeable with thinner enamel.

We understand that completely avoiding stain-causing foods and beverages isn’t realistic. When you do consume them, try brushing your teeth as soon as possible to remove the staining pigments. If you can’t brush your teeth right away, rinsing with water may also help reduce staining, too.

Good oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene allows more plaque to form on your teeth. The plaque works as an anchor for staining particles, firmly keeping them in place on your teeth. 

But good oral hygiene habits, like brushing and flossing your teeth every day, remove plaque from your teeth and prevent it from building up. Also, make sure to schedule your professional dental cleanings every six months.

Use a straw

A simple, easy tip to keep your teeth white is to use a straw. Drinking with a straw prevents staining pigments from touching the surface of your teeth. So, the next time you drink tea or iced coffee, remember to use a straw.

Nix the tobacco

Tobacco products, whether it’s a cigarette or chewing tobacco, can stain your teeth quickly. Nicotine and other chemicals found in tobacco cause deeper brown stains that are much harder to remove.

Follow-up appointments

Teeth whitening doesn’t have to be a one-and-done procedure. If your teeth lose some shine and need a touch-up, our team at Duval Orthodontics can take care of it for you. 

When it comes to whiter teeth, seeing a professional like Dr. Duval is the best option. While you can whiten your teeth with over-the-counter (OTC) products, they’re not as safe or effective.

To learn more about teeth whitening at Duval Orthodontics, call our office today or book an appointment with Dr. Duval online.