Immediate Steps After Teeth Whitening

It is crucial to know what to do after teeth whitening to maintain your teeth white and avoid damaging them while they are sensitive. The main teeth whitening aftercare tips include avoiding certain foods and drinks, as well as keeping up with oral hygiene properly.

Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

Right after teeth whitening, your teeth are extra sensitive as a protective layer is removed by the dentist to achieve the whitening result. This is why you should avoid eating certain foods and drinking some beverages for at least 24 hours after the procedure. It is recommended to avoid them for as long as 48 hours though. Among them are acidic products and extra hot or cold foods and liquids.

In addition to sensitivity, teeth right after whitening are extra prone to staining. This is why you should avoid the following staining foods and beverages:

• Coffee
• Red wine
• Tea
• Chocolate
• Juices

To make it easier for you, try focusing on white or light-colored foods for 48 hours as a part of after teeth whitening care. There are so many options to choose from: water, milk, rice, bread, eggs, potatoes, fish, chicken breast, and more.

Brush and Rinse with Care

When it comes to what not to do after teeth whitening, brushing your teeth is an important factor. It is necessary to avoid brushing for at least 24 hours after whitening. Your teeth will be sensitive to brushing, which is why it should be postponed. However, oral hygiene is still important. To keep your teeth and mouth clean you can drink lots of water and rinse with it. You can also use light fluoride mouthwash to be extra clean.

Teeth Whitening Aftercare: Maintaining Results Long-Term

Learning what to do after whitening teeth also includes long-term recommendations. Your special care does not end within 48 hours after the procedure, and you should take care of your whitened teeth at all times.

Dietary Choices

For your teeth to remain white and beautiful, it is still important to keep up with a diet to some extent. Avoiding staining foods and drinks is a must right after the procedure, but they will also stain your teeth in the long run. You should cut down on coffee, red wine, soy sauce, etc. if you want your teeth to remain white for longer. This does not mean you should drop these foods at all. Alternatively, you can use a straw while drinking staining liquids to minimize the damage.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Oral hygiene is a must at all times. Keeping up with good hygiene is also beneficial for your white teeth. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, use floss and mouthwash daily, and clean your tongue regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Teeth bleaching is a common desire, and there are also popular mistakes that people make. Here are some things to avoid when it comes to teeth whitening:

• Whitening teeth before consulting your dentist. There are many over-the-counter solutions for teeth whitening at home and traditional methods. Teeth whitening can be damaging if done incorrectly, and you should always contact your dentist first.
• Eating acidic foods. Some people might think that acid might help with teeth whitening, although it is important to avoid such foods after the procedure as your teeth will be sensitive.
• Whitening teeth frequently. Professional teeth whitening is safe for you. However, undergoing this procedure often can be damaging to your teeth.

You can ask your dentist any questions regarding teeth whitening to clear misunderstandings.

How to Handle Sensitivity After Whitening

Teeth remain sensitive after whitening for about 48 hours. Here are some things you can do to deal with this sensitivity:

• Eat mild foods in order not to irritate your teeth;
• Start brushing after 24 hours and use a soft-bristled toothbrush;
• Use special mouthwash for cleaning your oral cavity and desensitizing teeth;
• Use painkillers if your teeth are extra sensitive.

Teeth sensitivity is an expected side effect after this procedure, and you just have to be cautious with your teeth for some time.

Post Teeth Whitening Care: When to Contact Your Dentist

While teeth and gum sensitivity is to be expected for one to two days after the procedure, these effects should not last longer. If you experience pain, swelling, and extra sensitivity in your teeth and gums two days after the procedure, make sure to contact your dentist. You will be provided with instructions on what to do next and how to take care of your teeth.

Whitening teeth is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the world. Everyone wants a brilliant smile, and sometimes, all it takes is making your teeth a little lighter. It is important to consult with your dentist before proceeding with teeth whitening. Proper care is also needed after the procedure and later if you want to maintain these white teeth without staining. By taking care of your oral hygiene properly and keeping up with healthy eating habits, you can maintain your teeth in amazing condition.

Teeth Whitening Aftercare: the Most Common Questions

Additional Resources

Consider visiting these resources for more information about teeth whitening aftercare:

https://www.smiledentalcenterct.com/blog/cosmetic-dentistry/aftercare-whitening

https://www.bunkerhilldentistry.com/2023/03/02/teeth-whitening-aftercare/