Over time, teeth can become stained, dull, or yellow, sometimes due to factors beyond an individual’s control. Our dentists can give teeth a whiter appearance during an in-office treatment.
Once you reach your smile aesthetic goals, you will want to ensure your teeth look bright for as long as possible. Dr. Quinn Woodruff, a dentist practicing in McLeansville, NC, offers advice for keeping your teeth looking their best after a whitening treatment.
Avoid Staining Agents
Certain foods and beverages contain staining agents that can cause tooth discoloration, even after professional whitening treatment from your dentist. To preserve your tooth color, you should avoid dark-colored food items, including red wine, coffee, and tea, which can leave stains on your smile.
Though sipping through a straw and other tactics can reduce the likelihood of staining your teeth when drinking these types of beverages, they will not eliminate the risk entirely. Choose your foods and beverages with care after cosmetic dental treatment to protect your smile’s appearance.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Oral hygiene removes plaque from your smile, ensuring your tooth enamel remains strong and capable of resisting dental damages. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily can also help you remove surface stains on your teeth to help keep your teeth looking bright after a whitening treatment.
You can also rinse with mouthwash, especially after a meal, to get rid of lingering food particles and boost your oral hygiene. Mouthwash containing fluoride can also strengthen your enamel and help you preserve both your oral health and the look of your smile.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
A major part of your oral hygiene routine should include visiting your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Every six months, you should schedule an appointment so that your dentist can clean your teeth and evaluate your smile for signs of dental issues.
This type of oral healthcare will keep your teeth healthy and therefore looking their best. You can also ask your dentist about potential touch-up appointments for whitening treatment during these visits if you notice the cosmetic effects beginning to fade.
Professional Teeth Whitening in McLeansville, NC
McLeansville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers professional teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in McLeansville, NC. Dr. Woodruff also specializes in restorative and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 336.506.6545.