You’ve just had your teeth professionally whitened at Wood Lane Dentistry, and your smile looks fantastic. Whether you’ve brightened your smile for a special occasion or just to feel more confident, keeping that sparkling look can be a priority. Summer is full of opportunities for photos and social gatherings, so maintaining your new, bright smile is essential. But how do you keep your teeth looking their best amidst summer treats and activities?
Watch Your Diet
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: After whitening, your teeth are more susceptible to stains. Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and dark sauces. If you indulge, brush your teeth soon after or rinse your mouth with water.
Opt for Teeth-Friendly Foods: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery act like natural toothbrushes, helping to scrub your teeth clean as you eat. Dairy products, particularly cheese and yoghurt, can also help by strengthening enamel and balancing the pH levels in your mouth, reducing the risk of decay and discolouration.
Practise Good Oral Hygiene
Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a whitening toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent stains. Consider using an electric toothbrush for a more thorough clean.
Rinse After Meals: Rinsing your mouth with water after eating can help wash away food particles and reduce the risk of stains setting in.
Use a Straw: When drinking beverages that can stain your teeth, use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth. This simple trick can significantly reduce the likelihood of staining.
Regular Touch-ups
Whitening Products: Use dentist-recommended whitening products for touch-ups. These can help maintain your smile’s brightness between professional treatments. Whitening toothpastes, strips, or gels can be effective for minor touch-ups.
Avoid Smoking: Tobacco products can cause significant staining. Avoid smoking to keep your teeth looking their best. If you need help quitting, seek support from your dentist or a healthcare professional.
Stay Hydrated
Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth clean. Staying hydrated also ensures your saliva flow is optimal, which is crucial for neutralising acids and preventing decay. Drinking water after consuming staining foods or drinks can also help rinse away pigments that might otherwise adhere to your teeth.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Visit Your Dentist: Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and keeping your smile bright. Your dentist can provide professional cleanings that remove surface stains and offer additional whitening treatments if necessary. They can also give personalised advice on maintaining your smile and catching any potential issues early.
Maintaining your bright smile after professional whitening is easy with a few simple habits. Watch your diet, practise good oral hygiene, and stay on top of your dental visits. At Wood Lane Dentistry, we’re here to help you keep your smile radiant all summer long. Schedule your next appointment today and keep shining bright! Don’t wait—your dream smile is just an appointment away. Call us now to book your session and start your journey to a brighter, more confident smile
