GOOD ORAL CARE: It is vital to maintain a good oral hygiene routine after getting your teeth whitened. Keeping your teeth clean can also prevent discoloration and staining that can occur over a period of time. To prolong the life span of whitening, patients should brush and floss their teeth a minimum of twice a day.
FOODS/DISCOLORATION: Teeth that have been whitened can easily stain. During the first 48 hours, try to avoid anything acidic or cold/hot as this can heighten sensitivity. Avoid foods/drinks that are deep in color like red wine, coffee, tea, dark chocolate and foods with artificial coloring. Smoking can also stain teeth.
SENSITIVITY: Natural teeth have a layer called ‘acquired pellicle’ which protects the teeth from sensitivity. Whitening can temporarily remove this layer and cause sensitivity. It takes 24-48 hours for the pellicle layer to regenerate and no longer feel sensitive. Dr. Torres highly recommends using a anti-sensitivity toothpaste like Sensodyne. You can put a layer of the toothpaste in your nightguard or directly on teeth. If pain is persistent, you can take Motrin or Advil.
“HOW LONG WILL THE WHITENING LAST?”
If you maintain good oral hygiene, in-office whitening should provide long lasting results for 1-3 years. Teeth will gradually start yellowing over time. You can prolong the results with at-home whitening strips. Start the strips 48 hours after in-office whitening as long as there is no sensitivity. At home strips can be used once a week or at the frequency listed in the instructions of the whitening strips you choose.
