5 mistakes to avoid after
whitening for a radiant
radiant smile

Tooth whitening is growing in popularity thanks to its rapid effectiveness in achieving white teeth and a radiant smile. However, this treatment requires a few precautions afterwards to maintain its effects for as long as possible. Here are five mistakes to avoid after tooth whitening.

Skip the rinse step after using food colorants

After tooth whitening, it's vital to be aware of the foods and drinks you consume. Certain products such as coffee, tea, red wine and berries can stain your newly whitened enamel. It's therefore advisable to rinse your mouth with water after consuming these substances to minimize their impact.

This simple rinsing can go a long way towards preventing the reappearance of stains on your teeth. Regular, gentle brushing also reinforces this protection against food dyes. Although it may seem restrictive, these small gestures significantly prolong the effectiveness of tooth whitening.

Neglecting the use of a straw for dark drinks

Many people underestimate the direct impact of certain drinks on their white teeth. Drinking directly from a glass fully exposes teeth to the colorants contained in dark liquids such as cola or intense fruit juices. Using a straw reduces this contact and helps keep your teeth whiter for longer.

By following this simple tip, you can significantly reduce the amount of pigmented liquid that reaches your teeth, thus limiting the risk of new stains. This is especially true in the first few weeks after a whitening treatment, when teeth are even more susceptible to staining.

Ignoring your dentist's recommendations

Your dentist's advice is crucial to the safety and efficacy of the whitening techniques used. Neglecting these recommendations can not only nullify the benefits obtained, but also increase the risk of tooth sensitivity or even damage your enamel.

Common suggestions often include regular use of specific whitening gel and follow-up visits to check the condition of your teeth. Scrupulously following these instructions offers an additional guarantee of lasting results.

A few points to bear in mind:

• Daily use of a low-abrasivity toothpaste.
• Temporary food adjustments to avoid strong coloring agents.
• Apply a fluoride gel to strengthen enamel after the whitening process.

Brush teeth immediately after eating

It can be tempting to brush your teeth immediately after eating certain acidic or sweet foods in order to keep them clean. In reality, this may cause more harm than good. The acids in food and drink temporarily soften enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to abrasion.

Waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing will help remineralize enamel and protect your teeth. During this time, simply rinse with water to remove food residues. This practice will help maintain the health of your teeth without compromising the effects of the whitening treatment.

Neglecting a reinforced oral care routine

Effective brightening should not blind us to the need for exemplary oral hygiene. Regular cleaning, including twice-daily brushing and flossing, is essential to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar, which can interfere with the brilliance achieved.

In addition, using whitening products that are compatible with your new smile, such as adapted mouthwashes or specially formulated toothpastes, will help prolong the effects of the treatment. Incorporating these elements into your daily routine will ensure longer-lasting whitening results.

Key points for a successful routine :

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the gums.
• Choose toothpastes enriched with hydrogen peroxide to maintain whiteness.
• Consult your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and adjustments to your routine.

By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting the right practices after tooth whitening, you can keep your teeth looking their best for a long time to come. Keep in mind that every post-treatment effort contributes to maximizing the durability of your new smile.

Dental whitening treatment at Centre Dentaire Lancy

Chairside dental whitening

• The "in office" treatment, carried out in the office, consists of applying a highly concentrated gel to the teeth, which is also light-activated; this method is fast and carried out under medical supervision.
• The "devitalized tooth " (gray) treatment is performed from the inside of the tooth. The bleaching agent is applied to the root area, after which the tooth is whitened.

Dental Whitening at Home

The "home bleach" treatment, performed at home, involves applying a lower concentration of bleaching gel in custom-made trays, which you wear either during the day (2 x 40 min per day for 9-14 days) or all night long.

Discover also the Centre Dentaire Chêne-Bourg and the Centre Dentaire Champel