Maintaining Your Teeth after a Whitening Treatment

smiling woman

Having whiter teeth can give you an improved sense of confidence, and a teeth whitening treatment can help to achieve this. However, the effects of the treatment can be short-lived if proper care isn’t taken afterwards. After a teeth whitening treatment, maintaining white teeth requires more than just brushing and flossing.

Avoid Eating Certain Foods

Dental Bridges

Certain foods and drinks can cause staining to your teeth and undo the effects of the whitening treatment. These include red wine, coffee, tea, tomato sauce, and dark-colored fruits.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking can cause staining on your teeth and will undo the effects of the whitening treatment. If you are a smoker, it is important to quit to maintain white teeth.

Regular Teeth Cleaning

Endodontics

Having your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause staining and discoloration on your teeth.

Regular Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is essential for maintaining white teeth. Using a whitening toothpaste can help to reduce staining and keep your teeth looking brighter for longer. Learn more about Whitening for Life program.

Use a Mouthwash

Using a mouthwash can help to reduce staining and maintain white teeth. It also helps to reduce bacteria and plaque buildup, which can cause discoloration.

Avoid Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding can cause damage to your teeth and can undo the effects of the whitening treatment. If you find yourself grinding your teeth, it is important to speak to your dentist and get a mouth guard fitted to protect your teeth.

Use a Straw

Using a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages can help to reduce staining. The straw will allow the liquid to bypass your teeth and reduce the amount of staining that can occur.

Drink Water after Eating and Drinking

Drinking water after eating or drinking can help rinse any residue that may cause discoloration. Swishing the water around in your mouth for a few seconds can help to remove any stubborn stains.

Natural Ways to Whiten Teeth

1. Brush your teeth with baking soda: Baking soda is a natural whitening agent that can help to remove surface stains on your teeth. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water. Use a toothbrush to apply the paste to your teeth and gently brush for two minutes. Rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth with toothpaste afterwards.

2. Use hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleach that can help to remove stains from your teeth. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water and use a cotton swab to apply the solution to your teeth. Let the solution sit for one minute before rinsing your mouth with water.

3. Try oil pulling: An ancient practice involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut or sesame) in your mouth for 20 minutes. The oil helps remove toxins and bacteria from your mouth, which can help whiten your teeth.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, maintaining white teeth after a teeth whitening treatment requires a combination of proper oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. Brushing and flossing twice a day, avoiding acidic and sugary foods and drinks, and regularly visiting the dentist for cleanings and check-ups are all essential for keeping your teeth sparkling and healthy. 

Additionally, using whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, and even whitening strips in moderation can help to extend the effects of a teeth whitening treatment. With a good routine and regular check-ups, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

Pickering Dental Services offers the best teeth whitening treatments. We also provide preventative dental care. Book an appointment today.

Helpful Resources

For more information, visit the CDA on Tooth Whitening.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does professional teeth whitening last?

Professional whitening results can last 1-3 years depending on your diet and oral hygiene. Avoiding coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco helps maintain your results. Ask about our Whitening for Life program at Pickering Square Dental.

Is teeth whitening safe for my enamel?

Yes, professional whitening supervised by a dentist is safe for your enamel. Over-the-counter products can cause sensitivity if overused, which is why professional treatment at our Pickering office is recommended for the best and safest results.

How white will my teeth get?

Most patients see their teeth lighten by 3-8 shades. Results vary based on the type and severity of staining. Dr. Lean will assess your teeth and set realistic expectations during your whitening consultation.

3 Interesting Dental Services That Can Remedy Chipped Teeth

patient getting dental treatment

While as durable as bone, our teeth aren’t immune from damage. A forceful blow to the face, a sudden slip or fall, or even an incorrect bite on something hard may sometimes cause a tooth to chip or break. Below is a roundup of the most popular dental services to help repair a chipped tooth:

Bonding

dental emergency

One of the easiest and most popular dental treatments today is teeth bonding. The term refers to a dental procedure in which a composite resin is shaped and applied to a damaged tooth. It is generally used to fix cracks or chips in the teeth, cover holes, or fill in small gaps. 

You may choose this dental service if you’re on a tight budget since this procedure is generally cost-effective. It is also fast and easy. 

  • To start, the dentist will select the right shade of composite resin that matches your original teeth’ colour. 
  • The surface of the target tooth will then be roughened and coated with a conditioning liquid. 
  • Once done, the dentist will apply the composite resin and then shape the same to fit with your natural tooth. 
  • The last step usually involves polishing the affected area to achieve that natural shine once the resin dries.

Filling

A dental filling is closing off the holes, cracks, chips, or any other damage in a tooth using filling materials. During this treatment, the dentist shall remove the damaged portion of the tooth, clean the affected area, and seal it using a filling. Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

The procedure is simple, and costs may vary according to the type of filling materials used. You may get gold fillings, porcelain, silver amalgam, or composite resin fillings. Some dental practices even offer tooth-coloured non-metal fillings that are just as durable as other traditional metal-based restorations!

Dental Crowns

teeth whitening

A dental crown is another way to fix chipped or cracked teeth. A crown, AKA “a dental cap,” is placed on top of a damaged tooth to cover it up and restore its perfect appearance. 

This dental procedure is more elaborate and relatively expensive than the first two treatments. 

  • To start, the dentist shall first examine the affected tooth. A root canal treatment may be performed if decay has been spotted. 
  • The target tooth will then be trimmed to create enough room for the crown. 
  • Traditionally, a temporary cap will be applied first, and then the patient shall be advised to return days later once the permanent crown is ready for application.

However, to date, some dental clinics with advanced equipment may already create permanent dental crowns within only a few hours, allowing them to apply the same to the target teeth immediately.

Generally, dental crowns are recommended in cases of severely worn down teeth. However, interested individuals may still choose to avail of this treatment to improve the shape and colour of their teeth by covering them up with better-looking crowns. If you have a severely chipped tooth, going for a dental crown may be the better option instead of just bonding or filling.

Conclusion

With three interesting dental services available to remedy broken or chipped teeth, there’s no need to fret after a forceful blow, head injury, or accidental bite. Simply call your trusted dentist and ask them what the best solution is according to your needs and budget. 

Book an Appointment Today at Pickering Dental Services

We provide solutions for discoloured, cracked, or broken teeth, such as whitening, fillings, veneers, and more. Find out more about these dental services in Ajax by scheduling a visit at 905-420-1777!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.