Simple Tips to Maintain Your Whiter, Brighter Smile in Chicago, IL
You’ve just had your teeth professionally whitened, and your smile looks brighter than ever. Now, the next step is keeping it that way! While professional whitening delivers long-lasting results, maintaining a radiant smile requires some simple daily habits.
At Forward Dental Studio in Chicago, IL, we want you to enjoy your results for as long as possible. Here are the top tips for maintaining your whiter smile after professional teeth whitening.
1. Avoid Foods and Drinks That Stain Teeth
Certain foods and drinks can undo your whitening results by leaving surface stains on your teeth. To keep your smile bright, limit or avoid:
- Coffee and Tea
- Red Wine
- Dark Sodas and Sports Drinks
- Tomato Sauce and Curry
- Berries (like blueberries, blackberries, and cherries)
If you can’t give up your morning coffee or tea, drink it through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming any staining foods or drinks to wash away pigments.
Why It Matters: Staining foods and drinks can cause discoloration to return more quickly.
2. Brush and Floss Regularly
Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth white and healthy. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a whitening toothpaste approved by your dentist. Don’t forget to:
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.
- Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to keep your teeth strong and clean.
Regular brushing and flossing prevent surface stains from building up and keep your smile looking its best.
Why It Matters: Plaque buildup can make teeth appear dull and contribute to discoloration.
3. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings are an essential part of maintaining a white, healthy smile. Even with great at-home care, plaque and tartar can still build up over time, making teeth look dull.
At Forward Dental Studio, our team removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains during your cleaning appointments, helping your whitening results last longer.
Why It Matters: Regular cleanings keep your teeth bright and prevent stains from settling in.
4. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
To help maintain your results, use a dentist-recommended whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste is gentle on your enamel and helps remove surface stains that may develop between cleanings.
Be sure to choose one that is non-abrasive to protect your teeth and avoid sensitivity.
Why It Matters: Whitening toothpaste keeps surface stains at bay and maintains your professional whitening results.
5. Quit Smoking or Tobacco Use
Smoking and using tobacco products are some of the quickest ways to stain your teeth. Nicotine and tar cause yellow or brown discoloration that can reverse your whitening results.
Quitting smoking not only keeps your teeth white but also improves your overall oral and physical health.
Why It Matters: Tobacco use causes deep stains that are difficult to remove and can shorten the lifespan of your whitening results.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles, acids, and bacteria that can stain or harm your teeth. After eating or drinking anything that may stain your teeth, rinse your mouth with water to minimize discoloration.
Why It Matters: Staying hydrated keeps your teeth clean and helps maintain your fresh, white smile.
7. Consider Touch-Up Treatments
Over time, it’s natural for teeth to lose some of their brightness, especially if you consume staining foods or drinks. To keep your teeth looking consistently white, consider occasional touch-up treatments.
At Forward Dental Studio, we can provide touch-up whitening sessions to refresh your results and keep your smile at its brightest.
Why It Matters: Touch-up treatments ensure your smile stays beautiful for years to come.
8. Be Mindful of Acidic Foods
Acidic foods and drinks—like citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar-based dressings—can weaken your enamel, making your teeth more prone to staining. Limit acidic foods, and if you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Why It Matters: Weakened enamel makes it easier for stains to penetrate the surface of your teeth.
Why Professional Whitening Lasts Longer
Compared to over-the-counter products, professional teeth whitening delivers faster and longer-lasting results because:
- The whitening gel used is stronger and more effective.
- Treatments are tailored to your needs, ensuring consistent results.
- Your dentist protects your gums and enamel during treatment, reducing sensitivity.
With proper care, professional whitening can keep your teeth bright for 12 months or longer.
FAQs About Maintaining Your Teeth Whitening Results
1. How long do professional teeth whitening results last?
With good care, results can last up to 12-18 months. Avoid staining foods and drinks to maximize longevity.
2. Can I drink coffee or wine after whitening?
Yes, but try to limit these drinks and use a straw to reduce staining. Rinse your mouth with water afterward.
3. How often should I touch up my teeth whitening?
Most patients schedule touch-ups every 6-12 months, depending on their lifestyle and oral habits.
4. What toothpaste should I use after whitening?
Use a non-abrasive whitening toothpaste recommended by your dentist to remove surface stains.
5. Does smoking affect teeth whitening results?
Yes. Smoking and tobacco use cause deep stains that can reverse whitening results quickly.
6. How often should I brush my teeth after whitening?
Brush twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth clean and prevent plaque buildup.
7. Will drinking water help maintain my results?
Yes! Drinking water after meals helps rinse away food particles and staining agents.
8. Are professional cleanings necessary after whitening?
Yes. Regular cleanings remove plaque and surface stains, helping you maintain your bright smile.
9. Can I eat right after whitening?
Avoid dark or acidic foods for at least 24-48 hours after whitening to allow your teeth to settle.
10. Is teeth whitening safe for my enamel?
Yes! Professional whitening is safe when done by a dentist. We take steps to protect your enamel and gums during treatment.
Keep Your Smile Bright with Forward Dental Studio
Professional teeth whitening is an investment in your smile and confidence. By following these simple tips—like avoiding stains, practicing good hygiene, and scheduling regular checkups—you can enjoy your bright smile for months to come.
At Forward Dental Studio in Chicago, IL, we’re here to help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Whether you need professional teeth whitening or a touch-up, we’re just a call away!
Schedule your appointment today and keep your teeth looking their absolute best!