How to Extend the Results of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a safe, popular, and effective way to create a whiter, brighter smile without placing veneers or removing stained tooth enamel. At Airport Dental Care in Austin, Texas, Dr. Brian LaBombard offers his dental patients chairside teeth whitening using safe, effective GLO™ Science whitening techniques.

Who needs teeth whitening?

Everyone’s natural tooth color is different. Almost no adult has pure white teeth. However, certain heavily pigmented foods and drinks, lifestyle habits (like tobacco use), and even medications can cause discoloration of your teeth and make you long for a lighter shade of smile. While you can learn to avoid or minimize the effects of those things that cause tooth discoloration, you’ll need intervention to whiten your smile.

Why have in-office teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a rapidly growing industry, as more and more people seek an even, brilliant smile. Growth in the industry between 2017 and 2021 is expected to increase by 4% each year — with much of this growth attributed to the addition of chairside whitening offerings in dental offices.

While many at-home whitening products are available, none are as effective as chairside whitening using patented heat and light systems. The FDA-approved GLO Science system uses warming heat and gentle LED technology to accelerate the effect of the whitening gel for a brighter smile in less time than other teeth whitening methods.

In most cases, the only side effects from in-office teeth whitening are slight gum irritation, which disappears after a few days, and tooth sensitivity, which can last several weeks but can be minimized with a specially formulated gel and toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and gums.

Extending the effects of teeth whitening

Some people might whiten their teeth once a year, while others feel the need to visit the dentist monthly. You can extend the lifespan of your teeth whitening procedure significantly by following these simple tips:

• Avoid foods that contain deep-tinted ingredients that can discolor your teeth, like turmeric, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. If these ingredients are in your meal, try eating a piece of cheese pre-meal to help coat your teeth and protect them.
• Avoid beverages that can stain your teeth, like red wine, coffee, and tea. When possible, drink through a straw to help keep liquids from touching the front faces of your teeth.
• Avoid acidic foods and beverages that can etch the surface of your enamel and increase the chances of staining.
• Rinse your mouth with water immediately after eating, to help prevent stains from settling in before you can brush.
• Don’t use abrasive toothpaste or stiff-bristle toothbrushes, as you can harm your teeth and gums. Instead, use a dentist-recommended toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush.

Even with these precautions, you may eventually want another round of teeth whitening. When that time comes, contact our office for a teeth whitening appointment by phone or by using our online booking tool.