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Teeth whitening treatments use peroxide-based bleaching agents to whiten the enamel and dentin of your teeth. Once your teeth have been whitened, it's not uncommon for your teeth to become sensitive.

Avoiding foods and drinks that stain your teeth

Limit the consumption of highly colored food and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. If you must indulge in these beverages or foods, rinse your mouth with water after consumption to reduce staining.

Even with diligent aftercare efforts, teeth can stain over time. To reduce your risk of tooth discoloration, schedule professional teeth whitening treatments every six months.

Brushing after meals and flossing frequently

At home, you should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss at least once a day. This will help remove stains from your teeth and keep your smile bright. Be sure to avoid tobacco products and alcohol, which can discolor your smile over time. If you drink coffee or soda, use a straw when drinking beverages to allow the liquid to bypass the teeth. You can also rinse with water to help wash away surface stains. Regularly using whitening toothpaste can help assist with stain prevention. Finally, limit foods that can stain teeth, including coffee, tea, wine, tomato sauce, and blueberries.

Avoiding tobacco and tobacco products

Tobacco products can stain your teeth, making them appear yellow or brown. If you do smoke or use other tobacco products, avoiding them for at least 24 hours after your whitening procedure can significantly help your results last longer. Remember – tobacco use in any form can have negative health effects on your teeth and gums, too! Ask your dentist for recommendations on how to quit using tobacco for good.

Even though you avoid smoking or using other tobacco products after your professional teeth whitening, you can still benefit from quitting even a few days before your appointment. If you can avoid tobacco for the entire week leading up to your appointment, you can help ensure you achieve the best possible results without causing further discoloration to your teeth.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee. You can call us at (949) 380-0315 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.