What to Do After Teeth Whitening

Congratulations on finishing your teeth whitening treatment! Your smile looks fantastic, and we’re excited to help you keep it that way. Here’s what to expect after teeth whitening and some practical tips to maintain your new bright smile.

What to Expect After Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can give you a noticeably brighter smile, but it's important to know what to expect after your treatment. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the effects of teeth whitening, besides achieving whitened teeth.

Post treatment sensitivity

You might notice some teeth sensitivity after your whitening treatment. This is normal and should go away within 2-3 days after teeth whitening. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if you’re feeling discomfort. If the sensitivity lingers or worsens, it’s best to consult your dentist.

Some areas of your gums may appear white

It’s common for some areas of your gums to appear white after whitening. This temporary change will resolve within 24 hours after teeth whitening. The whitening agents can affect your gums, but don’t worry—it’s harmless and will pass quickly.

Immediately after whitening, you might see white patches on your teeth. These occur because your teeth are temporarily dehydrated. They will even out as your teeth rehydrate over the next few hours. After a teeth whitening procedure, it's essential to maintain your white teeth by following specific oral health practices.

Tips for Maintaining Your Bright Smile

Keep your teeth white by incorporating these steps into your daily aftercare routine!

Avoid food and drinks that causes staining

For the first 48 hours after the teeth whitening treatment, your tooth enamel is more susceptible to stains, so it's important to avoid coloured foods and drinks like

• Coffee
• Tea
• Dark sodas
• Ketchup
• Salsa
• Dark sauces
• Balsamic vinegar
  
  

Instead, follow a "white diet," which includes foods like white bread, white cheese, white rice or white sauce instead of tomato sauce for pasta, to minimise the risk of new teeth stains. If a substance can stain a white napkin, it’s best to avoid it.

Limit consumption of acidic foods

Besides food that stain teeth, it is also best to avoid acidic foods and drinks can erode your teeth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to stains and tooth sensitivity. After whitening, it’s best to limit the intake of:

• Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, grapefruits) and fruit juice
• Vinegar-based dressings
• Soft drinks or sports drinks These foods can weaken your enamel, so try to consume them in moderation. When you do eat acidic foods, drink water afterward to help neutralise the acid.
  

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth clean. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that could lead to staining. Plus, it keeps your mouth moist, which is essential for overall oral health.

Maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine

Good oral hygiene is key to keeping your smile bright. Brush and floss your teeth regularly, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush with toothpaste for sensitive teeth. This routine will help you maintain your whitening results and manage any tooth sensitivity.

Use a straw to reduce contact with teeth

If you enjoy dark or acidic beverages, such as coffee, tea, or soda, use a straw to minimise the contact these drinks have with your teeth. This simple habit can help prevent stains from forming after your whitening treatment.

Avoid smoking or tobacco products

Tobacco is a major culprit for staining teeth. If you smoke or use tobacco products, your teeth may yellow faster. Consider quitting or reducing usage to maintain your whitening results.

Follow up with your dentist

Schedule regular follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your whitening progress and discuss touch-up treatments. Your dentist may recommend professional at-home whitening kits or periodic in-office treatments to maintain your bright smile over time. Regular dental checkups will also ensure that your pearly whites stay healthy over time.

How to Use Your Whitening Trays (Professional Teeth Whitening At Home)

Always brush your teeth gently after eating to protect your enamel and keep a white smile. Start by brushing and flossing your teeth to ensure a clean surface for the whitening gel (which typically contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). Place a small amount of gel on the front part of each tooth slot in your trays—just a little will do. Teeth whitening trays from the dentist are effective when used correctly.

Insert the trays into your mouth, making sure they fit snugly against your teeth. If any gel spills onto your gums, gently wipe it away. Wear the trays for 1-4 hours or overnight, depending on your comfort level. If you experience significant sensitivity, shorten the wearing time. Try to avoid drinking water or talking excessively while wearing the trays to keep the gel in place.

After the treatment, remove the trays, rinse your mouth with water, and clean the trays with cold water and a toothbrush. Store them in their case and let them air dry. Avoid using hot water on the trays to prevent any distortion.

Follow this routine for 10-14 days, based on your desired level of whitening. Store any extra gel in a cool, dry place, and consider refrigerating it to extend its shelf life. Although whitening treatments can have side effects, such as temporary sensitivity, they can effectively remove stains with the right care and use of a proper bleaching agent.

If you’ve run out of gel, don’t worry! You can easily get more from our dental clinic. Just visit us, and we’ll help you stay on track with your whitening routine. Read more here.

Conclusion

If you have any questions or experience persistent sensitivity, we’re here to help. Reach out to us through our whitening page, WhatsApp, or phone. Our team is ready to assist you with any concerns.

Keeping your smile bright involves following these tips and maintaining good oral care. Enjoy your radiant smile, and remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

To support your whitening journey, discover our related articles here:

1. A Dentist’s Guide to Teeth Whitening in Singapore (2024)

2. UV vs LED Teeth Whitening Lights: Which is Safer for Your Smile?

3. Activated charcoal teeth whitening powder: What Dentists Think.