Expert Guide: Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Expert Guide: Teeth Whitening Aftercare

How to Care for Teeth After Whitening

According to dentistry.co.uk, teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the UK, with more than 4 in 10 people under 35 (42%) opting for the procedure.

Here at Smil Dental Clinic, we are pleased to offer a range of teeth whitening services – a simple yet highly effective way to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. After you’ve spent time and money on this treatment, you can prolong the results by following teeth whitening aftercare advice.

In this guide, we’ll look at the basics of the teeth whitening process before providing some helpful tips and aftercare advice. We will also answer some of our most Frequently Asked Questions about how to care for teeth after whitening treatment.

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 look 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.

How to Care for Teeth After Whitening

It is incredibly important to follow proper aftercare to maintain your teeth whitening results. Here are our 5 teeth whitening aftercare tips:

1. Brush and floss

It is crucial that you maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Continue regular brushing, flossing and mouthwash as usual. You might want to switch to a toothpaste formulated for whitening to help maintain your results.

2. Avoid staining foods and beverages for 48 hours

It is essential that you avoid pigmented or acidic food and drink for the first 48 hours after your 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 any specific instructions

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

If you follow these tips you will maintain a beautiful bright 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 beverages 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.

Call our Chatham dental clinic

Professional teeth whitening can make a dramatic difference to your smile and self-confidence. Knowing how to care for teeth after whitening will help to keep your bright smile.

While this is a general guide to teeth whitening aftercare, the best advice for caring for your newly whitened teeth should come from your dentist. Your dentist can provide tailored teeth whitening aftercare instructions and recommendations, based on your specific treatment and teeth.

To discuss teeth whitening options, please make an appointment at our state-of-the-art Chatham dental clinic. Call the Smil team on 01634 756 536.