You just had your teeth whitened, and you can’t stop looking at how sparkling white they are (we know!). It’s an incredible feeling to have a healthy, beautiful smile, which is why it’s important to take the right steps to preserve its beauty. While teeth whitener does not last forever, these tips will help to make it last longer:

• Eat healthy. Just as certain foods contribute to the yellowing of your teeth, certain foods contribute to keeping your teeth white. For example, apples, raw carrot sticks, and celery help to scrub the teeth as you’re chewing. Foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy products, also help to keep the teeth white.
• Avoid certain drinks. As you probably already know, red wine, coffee, black tea, and soda all stain the teeth. If you’re not willing to give up these items, you should rinse your mouth with water after drinking, or even drink through a straw. However, after your whitening treatment, your teeth are more susceptible to staining. Therefore, you should try to avoid these drinks for best results.
• Maintain proper dental hygiene. Whitening your teeth is not a substitute for poor hygiene. Make sure you brush your teeth (at least twice a day) and floss (at least once a day) to keep your teeth healthy and white.
• Get regular cleanings. Your teeth benefit from a deep cleaning that only your dentist can provide, especially freshly whitened teeth. You should visit your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning. Also, you may need touch-up whitening treatments, to ensure a long-lasting effect. Your dentist will recommend the best toothpastes for you to keep your teeth healthy and white.

By following each of these tips, you’ll keep your smile healthy and white! To learn more about professional teeth whitening, please visit our Teeth Whitening page.