Expert Guide: Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Expert Guide: Teeth Whitening Aftercare

How to Maintain Bright Teeth after Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in the UK, with over 42% of people under 35 opting for the procedure, according to dentistry.co.uk.

Here at Smil Dental Clinic, we are pleased to offer a variety of professional teeth whitening services, designed to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. To make the most of your investment, it’s essential to follow the right teeth whitening aftercare instructions to prolong and maintain your bright smile.

In this guide, we’ll provide some helpful teeth whitening aftercare tips, and answer frequently asked questions to help you preserve your results for as long as possible.

The Basics of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening involves applying a gel to your teeth to break down the stained molecules. As the molecules shrink in size, they can be separated from the tooth to brighten and significantly improve the appearance of your smile.

Whitening gels contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide which penetrates the tooth and causes oxidation. The stain compounds can then be lifted out of the enamel. When carried out in a dental clinic, a laser or light can be used to accelerate the process and enhance the whitening effects.

Teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone. During an initial consultation, the dentists at our Chatham clinic can assess your suitability for treatment. We will examine your teeth and discuss your dental health and history to ensure that whitening treatment will be safe and effective for you. To find out more, please call us today to arrange a consultation on 01634 756 536.

Maintaining White Teeth

Proper aftercare for teeth whitening is essential for maintaining your results. Here are our top 5 tips to follow:

1. Brush and floss

Brush twice daily and floss regularly to prevent new stains. Consider switching to a whitening toothpaste to help keep your teeth bright.

2. Avoid staining foods and drinks for 48 hours

Pigmented foods and drinks, like coffee, tea and berries, can quickly undo whitening results. Avoid them for the first 38 hours after treatment. If you can limit them for longer, it is even better. Drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum can also promote saliva production, which helps to keep teeth clean.

3. Avoid smoking and tobacco

As well as being bad for your health, smoking can also quickly stain your teeth. It is best to avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products entirely, especially after whitening, to maintain your brighter smile.

4. Attend regular dental check-ups

Most dentists recommend twice-yearly check-ups, but we may adjust the frequency based on your specific needs.

5. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions

Depending on your whitening treatment, there may be varying recommendations for whitening aftercare, such as dietary restrictions

By following these professional teeth whitening aftercare tips, you can enjoy a bright and white smile for longer.

Teeth Whitening Aftercare FAQs

Here are some of the most common questions about teeth whitening aftercare.

1. How long after teeth whitening can I drink tea or coffee?

As a nation of tea drinkers, this is naturally one of our most frequently asked questions! After professional teeth whitening treatment, you should avoid drinking tea for 48 hours.

We also recommend that you avoid consuming other acidic and staining food and drink for at least 48 hours. This includes coffee, cola, red wine and food with strong pigments such as curries, berries and beetroot. We may provide further or more specific advice based on the whitening method used.

2. How can I manage post-whitening sensitivity?

As part of your teeth whitening aftercare regime, we recommend that you avoid extreme temperatures in your food and drinks for the first few days. It is very unlikely that you will experience sensitivity after our professional teeth whitening treatment but any mild sensitivity typically subsides within a day or so.

If you do experience some sensitivity, we recommend that you consider using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Alternatively, we might suggest a desensitising gel.

3. Can I boost the whiteness of my teeth at home, with over-the-counter whitening products?

We do not recommend the use of OTC whitening products. However, we do have a range of effective teeth whitening treatments that can be used at home.

It is important to consult your dentist for guidance on touch-up treatments. We can help you choose the right approach that will maintain your white smile without risk.

4. What should I do if my teeth start to stain again over time?

If your teeth begin to stain or yellow over time, it is best to consult your dentist for advice. Depending on the timescale, we can recommend touch-up treatment or adjustments to your oral care routine.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Chatham

Professional teeth whitening has the power to transform your smile, boosting your appearance and your self-confidence. To maintain your radiant results and ensure long-lasting brightness, teeth whitening aftercare is essential. Call the Smil team on 01634 756 536 to keep your smile looking its best.