Our Favorite Ways to Maximize Your Teeth Whitening Session

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that’s quick, affordable, and effective. 

You can expect amazing results with professional teeth whitening from our skilled dentists at Solay Dental in Oldsmar, New Port Richey, and Brandon, Florida. We brighten smiles and boost confidence using advanced tools and techniques. 

Teeth whitening isn’t permanent, so we’re sharing our favorite ways to maximize results from your session.

Brush and floss regularly

Brushing and flossing your teeth may seem like a no-brainer for keeping your teeth and gums healthy and your smile bright. To maximize results, we recommend using whitening toothpaste.

And don’t forget to floss. Brushing removes food particles from the surface of your teeth, but you need to floss to remove the debris and plaque trapped in between. When plaque remains on your teeth, it hardens into tartar which can cause your teeth to yellow.

Drink coffee through a straw

Coffee is the go-to beverage for many, but the dark pigments in the caffeinated drink stain teeth. Limit the staining by drinking  coffee through a straw instead of sipping it from a cup. 

A straw delivers the liquid to the back of the mouth, limiting contact with the front of the teeth and may reduce staining. Be sure to let your hot coffee cool before taking your first sip so you don’t accidentally burn your mouth.

Don’t smoke

Tobacco and nicotine quickly dull your smile, causing yellow and brown stains. If you smoke, quit. 

It benefits your smile, teeth, gums, and overall health. 

Avoid foods that stain

Like coffee, some foods have pigments that stain teeth. Avoiding or limiting your intake of these foods may prolong the results of your whitening session.

Foods that are prone to stain include:

• Tomato sauce
• Blueberries
• Soy sauce
• Curry
• Dark chocolate
• Beets
• Balsamic vinegar
• Red wine

If you eat foods that can stain, brush immediately after eating to stop the stains from setting in.

Use at-home teeth whitening treatments

Our in-office teeth whitening treatment is fast and powerful and can lighten teeth by several shades, making it the preferred choice for those who want immediate results. But, we also provide at-home teeth whitening kits that gradually brighten teeth over time.

One way to maximize your teeth whitening session is to use our professional at-home treatments afterward. The kit includes custom-made trays that fit your teeth perfectly and professional strength bleaching gel. 

You can also purchase over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening strips to keep your teeth bright. Look for brands that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval, indicating the products are safe when used as directed.

Continue your regular dental visits

Coming in for routine dental visits may also lengthen the results of your cosmetic dental treatment. During these visits, our dental hygienist removes tartar from under the gum and the surface of the teeth to prevent buildup and tooth discoloration. They also polish the teeth with a powerful electric toothbrush, removing visible stains.

Regular visits also keep your teeth healthy, finding and treating issues before they become major dental problems.

Are you considering teeth whitening to improve your look? Call us today at 727-516-9900 or book an appointment online. Our dentists can evaluate your teeth and make treatment recommendations that provide the results you’re looking for.