No matter how many times you go in for a teeth whitening service or you use whitening strips, you may notice that the results are not permanent. If you go into the office for laser whitening or you use trays and gels, there are many options you may not realize are able to help make the results last. While whitening and bleaching methods are not permanent, these tips will help to ensure that the results last longer than they normally would.

1. Brush two or three times each day.

It is especially important to brush your teeth after eating sugary foods, but you should avoid brushing immediately after eating potentially staining foods. Rinse with water first.

2. Avoid smoking. 

Smoking tends to yellow the teeth, which leads to the need for additional whitening treatments over the years.

3. Avoid tea, coffee, red wine, and soda.

These drinks tend to stain your teeth, often leaving them more brown or red than you want them to be. Especially avoid these drinks immediately after a whitening treatment.

4. Touch up your own teeth every few months.

Whitening strips and at-home bleaching kits can be of great help if you want to maintain your pearly white smile. Just make sure that if you use trays, they are molded perfectly for your teeth rather than generic. Your cosmetic dentist can help you fit these trays.

5. Use a whitening toothpaste.

Whitening toothpaste can be used two or three times each day to remove stains. They usually contain hydrogen peroxide and other whitening agents.

6. Ask your dentist if a stronger bleach is available.

If you use at-home treatments, you might want to talk to your dentist about the option of using a stronger bleach.

7. Make your regular six-month dental appointments.

Your regular dental appointments will help you prevent cavities and other dental issues, but they will also prevent staining and other cosmetic issues. You do not want to miss these easy opportunities for excellent oral health.

When you feel good about your teeth, you are more likely to smile throughout the day. When you smile more, it actually can make you happier from the outside inward. You also feel more confident about yourself when you are not concerned about how your teeth look. Be proud of yourself and your new white teeth. Still have questions? Talk to your cosmetic dentist about your whitening options.