I have always been an avid hockey player, and my love took a bad turn one day when I got struck in the mouth with the puck. It was a painful moment that left me with two teeth knocked out of my mouth. Had I taken the right steps after the accident, I could have possibly saved the teeth, but I did not know I had that option at the time. Thankfully, I worked up the courage to visit a dentist and ask what my options for teeth-replacement were. I was worried I would would have to live the rest of my life without smiling, but I was ecstatic to learn that I was the perfect candidate for dental implants. I created this blog to help others realize that there are so many options to replace missing teeth today that no one has to "just live with" an imperfect smile!
After having your teeth whitened, it is only natural that you want to prolong the results for as long as possible. By making a few small changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can maintain a bright smile that you are proud to show off.
1. Adhere to Your Dentist's Suggested Aftercare Diet
Immediately after your whitening procedure, your dentist will send you home with an aftercare diet. Usually, it is advised that you adhere to the diet for 24 hours, but follow your dentist's specific recommendations.
Avoid using any type of oral care product that has color to it; white or clear products are usually okay. You'll also want to stay away from colored beverages, such as coffee and dark soda. Instead, drink water and other clear beverages.
If a certain type of food can stain your clothing, it can leave stains on your newly whitened teeth. Stick with foods that are white or beige in hue, like chicken, pork, and potatoes. See that you stay away from colored sauces and dipping products.
2. Swap Your Mouthwash for a Product That Incorporates Antibacterial Ingredients
A mouthwash with antibacterial ingredients helps prevent the formation of plaque. When plaque is on your teeth, it makes the surface gummy. The stickiness of your teeth's surfaces makes it easier for possible stains to adhere to your mouth.
3. Put Down the Tobacco Products
If you smoke or using chewing tobacco, now is the time to stop using these products. Not only will this improve your overall oral health, but it prevents your newly whitened teeth from being marred by new tobacco stains.
Many patients struggle with quitting their use of tobacco. One option is to swap your cigarette or smokeless tobacco for an electronic cigarette. Though electronic cigarettes use substances that contain chemicals that are harmful to the body, they are much less likely to stain the teeth. After you have made the switch to an electronic cigarette, you can taper your usage until you eventually quit using it as well.
4. Use a Straw When Drinking Colored Liquids
Once your aftercare diet is over, you may resume your consumption of colored liquids, like tea, wine, coffee, and soda. However, it is important to minimize the liquid's contact with your teeth. You may do this by using a straw to drink your beverages.
Instead of letting the beverage wash over your teeth when you sip it, a straw deposits the liquid farther back in your mouth, keeping it off of your teeth. Check out a website like http://www.vfdental.com for more information and assistance.
Share1 November 2017
