After undergoing professional teeth whitening in Canberra, it’s important to maintain your dazzling new smile by following proper aftercare. Teeth whitening treatments, whether done in-office or using take-home kits, can give you noticeable results quickly. However, ensuring those results last requires some effort. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips on how to maintain your teeth whitening results, the foods to avoid, and how to care for sensitive teeth after the treatment.
If you’re considering teeth whitening in Canberra or want to know more about aftercare, read on to learn how to keep your smile bright for as long as possible.
What to Expect After Professional Teeth Whitening
After your in-office teeth whitening treatment at My Dentist Canberra, your teeth will likely be several shades lighter, giving you a brighter and more youthful appearance. Professional treatments like Zoom Teeth Whitening or laser teeth whitening provide fast and effective results, often far superior to over-the-counter kits. However, without proper aftercare, the results can fade quicker than expected.
Immediately after your teeth whitening service, your teeth are more susceptible to staining because the enamel is more porous. To make your whitening results last, you need to be mindful of what you eat and drink and follow the best practices for post-treatment care.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid After Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening can remove years of stains, but you’ll need to avoid certain foods and drinks to maintain those results.
Avoid the Following Foods and Beverages for at Least 48 Hours:
- Coffee and Tea: Both are notorious for staining teeth. Opt for herbal tea or white tea if needed.
- Red Wine: Known to cause deep stains on teeth, red wine is best avoided in the days following your treatment.
- Soda: Dark colas contain acids and artificial coloring that can undo your whitening.
- Berries: While healthy, fruits like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries can stain your freshly whitened teeth.
- Tomato-Based Sauces: These are acidic and brightly colored, which makes them a hazard for your smile.
Stick to a “White Diet”:
For the first 48 hours after your teeth whitening treatment in Canberra, try sticking to what’s known as a “white diet,” which includes:
- Chicken or turkey (without sauces)
- Potatoes (no skin)
- White fish
- Rice, pasta, and white bread
- Cauliflower
- Cheese and yogurt
Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth: Special Aftercare Tips
If you have sensitive teeth, you may experience some discomfort or heightened sensitivity after a professional teeth whitening session. Here’s how you can manage it:
- Use Sensitivity Toothpaste: Opt for a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Products like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive can help reduce discomfort post-whitening.
- Avoid Hot and Cold Drinks: Teeth are more sensitive to extreme temperatures in the days following the whitening. Stick to lukewarm or room-temperature beverages.
- Ask for Fluoride Treatment: If you’re particularly prone to sensitivity, ask your dentist about a fluoride treatment after your whitening session to help remineralize your teeth and reduce discomfort.
Does Teeth Whitening Hurt?
While teeth whitening is generally painless, some patients report mild sensitivity during or after the procedure. This is temporary and typically subsides within a few days. If you’re worried about pain, ask about options like Zoom Teeth Whitening or laser teeth whitening, which tend to be less irritating for sensitive teeth.
Maintaining Your Teeth Whitening Results
Even though professional teeth whitening treatments last longer than over-the-counter whitening kits, they aren’t permanent. On average, in-office teeth whitening can last between six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle and aftercare routine.
Here are some tips to extend your results:
Use Whitening Toothpaste: Using a whitening toothpaste in your daily routine can help remove surface stains and prolong the effects of your teeth whitening treatment.
Use a Straw: When drinking stain-causing beverages like coffee or wine, use a straw to minimize direct contact with your teeth.
Rinse After Meals: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods or drinks that could stain your teeth.
Schedule Regular Cleanings: Regular dental cleanings at My Dentist Canberra will help remove surface stains and maintain your bright smile.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
The longevity of teeth whitening results depends on several factors, including your diet, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices. For most patients, the effects of in-office teeth whitening in Canberra can last anywhere from six months to two years. Regular touch-ups with take-home kits provided by your dentist can help keep your teeth looking bright.
Is Zoom Teeth Whitening Worth It? Yes! Zoom Teeth Whitening is one of the most popular teeth whitening services at My Dentist Canberra due to its effectiveness, convenience, and long-lasting results. If you follow proper aftercare, you can enjoy a bright smile for many months.
Teeth Whitening for Special Groups
If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s important to know how the treatment affects different groups:
- Teeth Whitening for Teenagers: While teenagers can undergo teeth whitening, it’s recommended to wait until the teeth are fully developed, usually after age 16. Always consult with a dentist to ensure it’s safe.
- Teeth Whitening During Pregnancy: Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid teeth whitening during pregnancy as a precaution, though there is no conclusive evidence suggesting harm.
- Teeth Whitening for Older Adults: Many older adults seek professional teeth whitening to combat years of stains and discoloration. In-office treatments are highly effective for this group, particularly for those with deep stains.
Teeth Whitening Cost in Canberra
The cost of professional teeth whitening varies depending on the type of treatment. At My Dentist Canberra, you can expect a range of options:
- In-office teeth whitening: Ranges from $400 to $800 depending on the procedure (e.g., Zoom teeth whitening, laser teeth whitening).
- Take-home whitening kits: These kits are less expensive, costing between $200 and $400, and are custom-made for your teeth by our dentist.
If you’re looking for affordable teeth whitening in Canberra, we offer competitive pricing and payment options. Contact us for a personalized quote!
Book Your Professional Teeth Whitening in Canberra
If you’re ready for a brighter smile, My Dentist Canberra offers a variety of teeth whitening services, including Zoom teeth whitening, laser teeth whitening, and custom take-home kits. Whether you’re interested in fast results from in-office teeth whitening or prefer a more gradual approach, we have options that suit your needs and budget.
Proper aftercare is crucial to maintaining the results of your professional teeth whitening treatment. By following our recommended tips, you can enjoy a bright, beautiful smile for months to come. If you’re in the Canberra area and are interested in learning more about our teeth whitening services, contact My Dentist Canberra today to schedule your consultation.
