How to Keep Your Smile Bright Between Whitening Treatments
A bright, white smile can boost your confidence and make a fantastic first impression. After investing in a professional teeth whitening treatment, you’ll want to keep that radiant smile for as long as possible. While natural wear and certain foods can dull your teeth over time, these tips will help you maintain your whitening results between treatments. Here’s how to keep your smile shining bright!
1. Stick to a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for a bright smile. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily removes plaque and surface stains that can diminish your whitening results. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth clean and protected. Regularly scheduled dental cleanings are also important, as they help remove tartar and any stains that your regular routine might miss. Dr Berera in Leichhardt recommends seeing your dentist every six months to keep your smile healthy and shining.
2. Be Mindful of Staining Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and beverages are known to stain teeth. Dark-coloured drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola can contribute to discolouration, as can foods like berries, tomato-based sauces, and soy sauce. If you enjoy these foods, try rinsing your mouth with water afterward to minimise staining. Drinking through a straw can also help reduce contact with your front teeth, which can lessen staining from beverages.
3. Rinse with Water After Meals
Rinsing with water after eating is a quick and easy way to maintain your whitening results. It helps remove food particles and pigments that can cling to your teeth and cause stains. Even if you’re unable to brush right after a meal, a simple rinse with water can make a difference. This habit is particularly helpful after eating acidic foods, as it helps neutralise acids without the risk of enamel wear from immediate brushing.
4. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
A whitening toothpaste is an excellent tool for maintaining your smile between professional treatments. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives or gentle bleaching agents that can help remove surface stains, keeping your smile bright. However, it’s best to use these toothpastes in moderation, as overuse can lead to sensitivity. For a safe choice, look for a whitening toothpaste that’s approved by dental associations and safe for everyday use.
5. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and tobacco products are not only detrimental to your health but also a major cause of tooth discolouration. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes and other tobacco products stain teeth quickly, leading to yellow or brown staining that can be difficult to remove. Quitting smoking will not only help you maintain a bright smile but will also benefit your overall health. If you’re looking to make a change, consider reaching out for support from friends, family, or healthcare professionals.
6. Schedule Touch-Up Treatments
Despite following all the best practices, you may eventually notice your smile fading a little over time. For this reason, touch-up treatments are a great way to maintain a white smile between full whitening sessions. Dr Berera can provide professional-grade whitening kits for safe, at-home touch-ups, or she can schedule quick in-office treatments to refresh your smile.
Regular Check-Ups with Dr Berera in Leichhardt
Routine dental visits are essential for a healthy, white smile. Dr Berera can monitor your oral health, provide professional cleanings to remove stubborn stains and plaque, and offer personalised advice on maintaining your whitening results. Regular check-ups also give you a chance to ask any questions you may have about keeping your teeth as bright and healthy as possible.
If you’re looking to keep your smile radiant and maintain the results of your professional whitening treatment, contact Dr Berera’s Leichhardt clinic to book your next appointment. With these easy habits and the support of a dedicated dental team, you can enjoy a sparkling, confident smile all year long!