If you've got newly white and bright teeth, your aim is undoubtedly to keep them looking that way. However, you may not know how to best look after your teeth post tooth whitening. Sometimes, the obvious tips like "don't do the same things that darkened your teeth to start with" just aren't enough — after all, there are plenty of times that you're unsure of exactly what caused the teeth discolouration or darkening. The good new is that no matter why your teeth were discoloured or darkened, you can do several things to preserve your beautiful white teeth now. Here are three easy tips to follow.
Sip, Don't Slurp
Whilst it might seem like a minor change, altering your beverage consumption habits can really help keep your teeth white. Whenever possible, opt for straws whilst drinking. This avoids exposing your teeth to fizzy drinks and other coloured beverages that could cause stains. In the case of tea, coffee, or other beverages that you don't typically drink with a straw, try taking small and precise sips — trying to avoid direct teeth exposure — rather than large slurps. In this way, you may be able to minimise the amount of dark liquid that touches your teeth.
Brush Smarter, Not More Often
After teeth whitening, many people may make the mistake of brushing many times a day in an attempt to keep their teeth as white as possible. Whilst regular brushing is important, too-frequent brushing can actually be damaging to your enamel, causing it to wear away prematurely. The Australian Dental Association recommends that you brush two times daily for two minutes each time. Keep your brush at a 45 degree angle and work your way forward from the back of the mouth for optimal results. Always floss thoroughly to ensure that you get any small food particles out of the crevices between your teeth. By brushing on the recommended schedule, you'll keep teeth clean whilst avoiding staining as much as possible.
Use the Top Touch-Up Products
Your dentist is always the best source of teeth whitening products — and should be the only one. The non-prescription products that you can buy at the chemist aren't regulated and may cause damage to your teeth and gums, so don't use them for touch-ups or to maintain your teeth whiteness. Ask your dentist about prescription touch-up products. Some dental grade teeth whitening systems offer take-home whitening pens or trays that you can use to maintain your great results in between your whitening visits at your dentist's office.
By following the three tips discussed above, you can keep your teeth beautifully white and bright until your next teeth whitening appointment — no need to ever feel unhappy with the colour of your teeth again! For more information, contact local professionals or visit sites like http://www.dentalsmile.com.au.
