Teeth whitening is one of the safest cosmetic dental procedures. Still, there are some things that you should avoid after you get a teeth whitening procedure done to avoid causing damage to your smile. Listed below are some such things.

Smoking

Until the whitening treatment has been fully completed, avoiding smoking and tobacco products is important. When you smoke, particles from the tobacco are deposited on your teeth; this can make them appear discolored or yellowed as the stains build up over time. If the teeth become stained enough post-treatment, you may need to have the procedure done again in order to brighten them up.

Drinking coffee or soda

Right after your whitening procedure, it’s best to stick to drinks that won’t stain your teeth again. This means avoiding coffee, tea, and any dark-colored sodas. You should also avoid smoking because it can discolor your teeth quickly after the procedure. If you do smoke, consider quitting before your teeth whitening appointment.

It’s also a good idea to rinse your mouth with mouthwash every day after your teeth whitening treatment. This will help keep stains from forming on your teeth. Rinsing with water will also help remove any lingering particles that may still be stuck to your teeth.

Keep in mind that once your teeth have been whitened, anything you eat or drink will temporarily lighten the color of your teeth. To keep your teeth their brightest, try to avoid consuming these foods and drinks for at least a couple days after the teeth whitening process: tomato sauces, curry sauce, citrus fruits and juices, red wine, berries, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and dark sauces like chocolate and barbecue.

In addition to eating less of these things, it’s also a good idea to avoid brushing your teeth immediately after eating them. When these staining foods are immediately brushed away, they can eat away at your tooth enamel and cause more discoloration. Brushing your teeth regularly is important but be gentle around them for about a week after your teeth whitening treatment.

If your teeth darken at all after a whitening treatment, talk to your dentist about some options that can help remove the new color. Sometimes, they’ll recommend a special toothpaste that will help protect your teeth and help keep the shade they achieved during the whitening treatment. Another option may be an in-office whitening session that you can schedule at your dental office.

Feel free to refer back to this guide anytime you have questions about what you can eat or drink after a teeth whitening treatment. Better yet,

Not brushing and flossing enough

If your teeth have been whitened, you still need to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once every day. However, it’s important to make sure you are using the correct toothbrush and toothpaste for whitening. A whitening toothpaste is usually abrasive and should not be used more than twice a day; even using it once a day may be too much for some patients with sensitive teeth. Use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth instead. Also, make sure to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Vigorously brushing right after teeth whitening can irritate the gums and cause temporary sensitivity.

It’s also important to remember not to eat or drink anything that will stain your teeth after your treatment. Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and other dark beverages can cause stains on your teeth that are difficult to remove. The dentist will be able to recommend products that can minimize staining after you leave the office for your treatment. By avoiding foods and drinks that are likely to cause stains and discoloration, you can protect your investment and keep your smile bright for a long time to come!

Don’t forget to do a post-treatment checkup with your dentist within the first few days after whitening to make sure that your gums are healthy and that no complications have occurred.