Your smile says a lot about who you are, which is probably why as many as 18% of people conceal their teeth in photos. Bright and healthy smiles build confidence whereas stained and chipped smiles often leave many people wanting.
It’s for this reason why teeth whitening products and procedures in the U.S. are so popular. However, despite their popularity, there are quite a number of things dental patients do after their teeth whitening procedures that can actually hurt their chances of getting a whiter smile.
That being said, here are a few things you shouldn’t do after seeing your Murfreesboro dentist for teeth whitening.
- Drink staining drinks
It’s safe to say Americans love their coffee, but you’ll need to stay away from your favorite cup of Joe for at least 48 hours after your teeth whitening procedure. When patients drink soda, coffee, tea, and wine, these beverages soak up into the porous enamel of your teeth. This is also true of dark foods such as blueberries and blackberries. Try to find another source of caffeine for at least two days after your procedure or else you won’t be as happy with your results as you’d like.
- Drink staining drinks
- Smoke cigarettes
It can be just as bad for your teeth to smoke as it is to drink dark drinks after your teeth whitening procedure. The tobacco from your cigarettes can be absorbed into your porous enamel like a white cotton t-shirt. That being said, even if you’re an avid smoker, try to abstain from it for at least 48 hours after your procedure. Your smile will thank you later.
- Smoke cigarettes
- Use teeth-whitening products without consulting your dentist
It may not seem like a problem to use whitening products after your procedure. However, certain products can actually stain your teeth after your procedure including antibiotic mouthwashes and specific medications. Therefore, be sure to consult with your dentist prior to using any products or prescriptions even if they’ve been prescribed by your dentist in the past.
Tooth whitening procedures are a great way to improve your smile without the hassle of using expensive toothpaste and gum. For more information on whitening procedures, contact the dental offices of Murfreesboro Family Dentistry today.
