Dos and Don’ts of Teeth Whitening

Age, certain foods and beverages, medications, and lifestyle choices can dull your brilliant smile. With teeth whitening, you can remove stains and brighten your teeth. Drugstores carry over-the-counter products like whitening strips, bleaching kits, and special toothpastes. Your dentist may also offer other options, including chairside whitening and take-home trays.

These Dos and Don’ts will maximize your smile’s beauty and minimize any issues:

Do follow directions
Use the products as instructed and don’t overdo it with the whitening agents or you may cause gum irritation and teeth sensitivity.

Do adopt a healthy lifestyle
Smoking and tobacco use can create new stains and negate the impact of teeth whitening. If you can’t quit, try to cut down on your usage.

Do practice good hygiene
Brushing and flossing as recommended will remove plaque and food from your teeth, improving the look of your smile.

Do watch what you eat
Dark foods and beverages like cola, red wine, blueberries, and blackberries can discolor your smile, so limit your consumption. When you do partake of these items, rinse your mouth with water right away.

Do consult with your dentist
Ask for recommendations about the best options for your specific situation.

Don’t allow kids to whiten
Children under 16 should not be permitted to try whitening products.

Don’t go crazy
You shouldn’t make your smile brighter than the whites of your eyes because it looks unnatural.

Don’t forget to touch up your smile
For lasting radiance, you will probably need to whiten at home every six to nine months.

Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry – Teeth Whitening – Toronto Canada Dentist