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How To Keep Your Teeth Looking Great In Between Whitening Treatments

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If you have your teeth professionally whitened, you might notice that your teeth fade and eventually show some yellowing and discoloration. If you would like to increase the time in between teeth whitening treatments and keep your smile glowing, there are a few things that you can do at home to help. Here are four tips to keep your smile white in between whitening treatments.

1. Stop Smoking

If smoking is what got you into the predicament of discolored teeth to begin with, it is a good idea to kick this habit for good. Alternatives such as electronic cigarettes and nicotine gum won't have the same staining elements as the smoke from cigarettes, but can still give you the boost that you need.

2. Avoid Staining Foods

It is a good idea to avoid darker foods and beverages, especially right after a whitening procedure. Your teeth will be dried out and in a porous state, leaving them more susceptible to discoloration. Foods such as berries and beets should be avoided, as well as beverages such as red wine and coffee. If you need your caffeine or wine fix, try using a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth.

3. Use Whitening Strips in the Interim

You can keep your smile bright with over-the-counter whitening strips for day use, and you can have whitening trays fitted by your dentist for evening use. If you do choose to use an over-the-counter product, make sure to run this by your dentist first. You want to make sure this isn't a product that might weaken your enamel. Your dentist will have suggestions for at-home whitening products that you can use between professional treatments.

4. Toothpaste Choices Matter

Not all toothpastes are created equal. If you have gone through a teeth whitening procedure, your teeth might become sensitive. Find a toothpaste that whitens, but also combats sensitive teeth by strengthening the enamel with every brushing. This will keep your teeth strong and reduce sensitivity from whitening. Keep your teeth in good shape and ready for future whiting procedures with your toothpaste choices.

If teeth whitening is a part of your life, make sure that you aren't relying too heavily on professional procedures to keep your smile bright. There are plenty of things that you can do on your own to reverse the look of discoloration and keep your teeth strong between procedures. Do what you can between professional whiting visits to take back your smile. Talk to a dentist, like those at Springdale Family Dental, for additional whitening advice.


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