Teeth whitening aftercare to reduce sensitivity
Professional teeth whitening and take home whitening kits are a great investment to boost your self-confidence and give you a beautiful bright white smile. However, your teeth become especially susceptible to pain, sensitivity, discoloration and staining after whitening and so it’s important to follow the right after care. The following are some ways you can optimize your investment and get the most out of your teeth whitening treatment.
Food and drinks
During whitening your tooth enamel also becomes more permeable, exposing the soft dentin layer that contains nerves. Because of this, dark coloured food and drinks are more easily able to stain your teeth in the first 24 hours, and this is also why your teeth become sensitive and sore after whitening. Hot and cold food can also create sensitivity, and acidic food can weaken your enamel even further, making your teeth more sensitive and more prone to staining.
Avoid:
- Coffee
- Red white
- Citrus fruit
- Fruit juices
- Beer
- Teas
- Soy sauce
- Gherkins and other pickles
- Cured meats
- Chocolate
- Highly pigmented spices like turmeric
- Very hot or very cold food and drink
Choose:
- Milk
- Pasta
- Rice
- Lighter coloured vegetables like Cauliflower and potatoes
- Lighter coloured fruti like bananas and peeled apples
- Eggs
- Fish
- Chicken
- Tofu
- Yogurt
- Bread
- Oatmeal
- Cheese
If you just can’t stay away from staining foods rinse your teeth immediately afterwards, and if you can’t survive without your daily coffee, sip it through a straw.
Additional aftercare habits:
Brush your teeth regularly with a soft bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. If you’re experiencing sensitivit use an anti-sensitivity toothpaste and mouthwash (like Sensodyne) and consider painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol in the first 24 hours if the pain is unmanageable.
Avoid other habits that can stain your teeth, such as smoking for at least 24 hours.
Keep your teeth whiter with at home whitening trays from your dentist. Or find a dentist near you who offers professional at home whitening solutions using top brands like Opalescence or Zoom.