Teeth whitening is a common trend nowadays, primarily because we are more socially involved and we smile a lot. So we are all concerned about our tooth colour. In the previous blog we had mentioned in detail about the process of teeth whitening.
For a detailed look at all the benefits, please refer to our blog: “Everything You Should Know About Teeth Whitening: Benefits and Risks“
In this blog, I will highlight the after care of teeth whitening. What is the need for teeth whitening after care? If that is the doubt, it is mainly because Teeth whitening is not a permanent treatment, it is temporary and depending on your teeth texture, your teeth can get stained easily because of artificial colours in the foods and drinks we have nowadays.Â
The First 24 Hours after teeth whitening
The first 24 hours are very crucial in aftercare for teeth whitening because the tooth is very sensitive to temperature and stains.
- Immediately after the procedure, do not eat or drink anything for the next 3 hours. So always remember to feed yourself before the procedure.
- Avoid too hot or too cold foods or drinks for 24 hours after the procedure.
Dos After the Teeth Whitening Treatment
Drink lots of water and always keep wetting your teeth with your tongue so that your teeth remain hydrated. Remember, tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening is mainly due to tooth dehydration. You can minimize tooth sensitivity by following these steps. If tooth sensitivity is still bothering you, the usage of anti-sensitive toothpaste is recommended. Teeth whitening along with Laser can help reduce sensitivity.
While brushing your teeth, you can use normal white Toothpaste (not coloured tooth gel).Â
Electric toothbrushes can be used. Having teeth whitening treatment doesn’t prevent you from using electric brushes. After 6 months, you can do home teeth bleaching with a tooth whitening booster kit (which you can avail of from your dentist).
Products to Avoid
- Avoid tobacco usage completely for a few weeks to avoid staining teeth
- Coloured mouthwash must be avoided. Try using clear coloured mouthwashes (like Freshclor)
- Tooth powder must be completely avoided as it damages enamel.
- Items to avoid for 1 week are carbonated beverages, alcohol, tea or coffee without milk, any food with artificial colours, red chilly, turmeric, and red sauces.
Teeth Whitening Treatment can be of full effect if the aftercare is done with utmost care. Or there is a change for uneven results. Usually, the effects of teeth whitening can last for 6 months but without proper aftercare, this period can be reduced.Â
Common Questions Regarding After care of Teeth Whitening
- Will my teeth be sensitive after whitening treatment?
Yes, sometimes teeth can be sensitive but the reason is mainly due to tooth dehydration. Always keep wetting your teeth with your tongue so that your teeth remain hydrated and drink lots of water. If tooth sensitivity is still bothering you, the usage of anti-sensitive toothpaste is recommended.
- How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?
After 3 hours of the treatment, you can eat and drink avoiding stained food items and drinks. So always remember to feed yourself before the procedure.
- Is oil pulling safe after whitening?
Yes, Oil pulling is safe after the teeth whitening treatment, But after the treatment should wait and resume it after 1 week. Also, You can use clear-coloured oil.
- What to do if I notice uneven whitening?
After the treatment Uneven whitening does not occur. So it is unlikely you might notice an uneven colour. Before teeth whitening, a proper diagnosis and treatment plan must be done with the best dental clinic in Kochi, for proper and effective teeth whitening.
- How much would it cost for teeth whitening treatment?
It is purely depending on the materials used and expertise, teeth whitening can cost around INR 10,000 onwards and upwards. Need to keep in mind the cost can also be affected depending on the patient’s teeth situation and colour gradient.