Keeping your teeth white after a cleaning requires dedication and effort. Depending on your lifestyle, discoloration and staining can happen quickly and without much effort. Fortunately, there are some easy tips and tricks you can follow to help keep your teeth looking brighter and more beautiful.
1. Brush Regularly
Brushing your teeth two times a day can be a great way to keep your teeth looking white and bright. Brush in circular motions and pay special attention to areas where food and debris can get stuck and where plaque, tartar, and bacteria can accumulate. Use soft, gentle strokes, and remember to replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner.
2. Use a Teeth-Whitening Tray
You can also use a teeth-whitening tray in combination with your whitening toothpaste, as this can help to enhance the look of your teeth further. The custom trays are created using impressions of your teeth and can be filled with a whitening solution applied directly to the teeth for 15 to 20 minutes daily for optimal results. This treatment helps to break down the stains on the enamel of your teeth, allowing them to appear whiter and brighter.
3. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
The best way to keep your teeth looking and feeling great is to avoid staining foods and drinks. This means limiting coffee, tea, sugary sodas, red wines, and acidic fruits (such as lemons, oranges, and limes). Try to avoid dark-colored sugary treats, too. These foods and drinks can leave a residue that darkens your teeth over time.
4. Avoid Smoking
Smoking is one of the top contributors to stained and yellow teeth. The nicotine and tar found in cigarettes produce terrible staining on the enamel of the teeth. Not only this but smoking increases the risk of developing gum disease, which can also cause yellowing of the teeth. If you have recently had your teeth cleaned, try to avoid smoking, and if you are a smoker, consider cutting back or quitting to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best.
5. Avoid Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Grinding and clenching your teeth can wear down your enamel, making your teeth look dull and yellow. Try to avoid this behavior, especially after getting your teeth cleaned. If you cannot control your clenching and grinding, consider speaking with your dentist about a mouthguard to protect your teeth. Additionally, reducing stress levels can help reduce the likelihood of grinding and clenching your teeth.
6. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
Using whitening toothpaste at least twice a day can help maintain the white color of your teeth. Whitening toothpaste is designed to gently remove surface stains and plaque to reveal a brighter, whiter smile. When choosing a toothpaste, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance, as this indicates that the toothpaste is proven effective and safe. Ensure you don’t overuse toothpaste, as overly aggressive brushing can cause damage to your teeth and gums.
7. Regular Check-Up
Regular cleanings at the dentist’s office can be extremely beneficial in keeping your teeth looking and feeling their best. Visiting the dentist every six months allows them to keep an eye out for any potential issues and address them before they have a chance to develop. They can also recommend professional whitening treatments if needed. These simple tips and tricks can help keep your teeth looking and feeling great after a professional cleaning.