Things to Avoid After Whitening Your Teeth

Teeth whitening removes stains and discoloration on a person’s teeth. A peroxide-based solution is applied to the teeth and causes oxidation within the tooth's enamel. This reaction lightens the color of the tooth. Whiter teeth are associated with good oral health and are aesthetically pleasing. 

At-home teeth whitening kits are a popular way to achieve brighter smiles. However, many people opt for professional teeth whitening services. In-office treatments use more potent concentrations of peroxide than at-home products. Professional cleanings also include polishing to remove surface stains from the surface of the teeth.

In addition to brightening the teeth, many find their teeth feel cleaner after a professional treatment. At John H. Ko, DDS, the dentist can remove tartar buildup on the teeth during the procedure. Removing this substance prevents cavities and other oral issues from occurring in the future. Another critical benefit of professional teeth whitening is removing the deep-set stains that at-home treatments cannot address. These stubborn stains are usually caused by tobacco use or dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and cola. A professional treatment is the best way to get white, bright, and healthy-looking teeth.

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening treatments are generally considered safe and effective when performed under the supervision of a dentist, especially when compared to over-the-counter whitening treatments that may contain bleaching agents that are not intended for long-term use. Your dentist can recommend the best whitening system for your needs and lifestyle. For example, suppose you have sensitive teeth or are dealing with tooth stains caused by medications or exposure to certain foods and beverages. In that case, your cosmetic dentist may recommend a gentler in-office whitening system. On the other hand, at-home professional whitening kits may be the optimal choice for patients who want to whiten their teeth more timeously.

Things to Avoid After Teeth Whitening

• Smoking or using tobacco products of any kind after your treatment. Cigarettes are awful for newly whitened teeth because the nicotine can weaken the bonding agent used to adhere veneers to the teeth. When this happens, veneers may pop off or come loose. In addition, tobacco use can make other dental treatments not work as well.
• Acidic substances, such as lemons or tomatoes. These can erode your enamel and cause hypersensitivity issues. Avoid them right after whitening your teeth!
• Certain foods and drinks. Some drinks and foods can cause stains on your teeth, including wine, coffee, and berries. Drinking through a straw can help minimize staining as well.
• Brushing too hard. This can strip away the protective layer of your tooth enamel, making your teeth sensitive and leading to decay over time. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently with a soft-bristled brush instead.

Tooth whitening is designed to whiten your natural enamel and give you a whiter smile. 

 If you are considering whitening your teeth, visit John H. Ko, DDS, at 5720 Stoneridge Mall Rd #200, Pleasanton, CA 94588, or call (925) 847-8790.