Tips to Extend Laser Teeth Whitening Results

A whiter smile makes everyone feel more confident, and many people turn to laser teeth whitening to remove the most stubborn dental stains. Discover the tips dentists give to extend the results of this popular cosmetic procedure.

How long do teeth remain white?

A whitening agent that penetrates the underlying dentin layer removes hard-to-reach stains and whitens teeth from the inside out. Results may vary, but most people can expect the results to last at least six months, and some may enjoy whiter teeth for up to two years.

How can patients extend the results?

Patients often wonder how to extend the results of teeth whitening sessions. Dentists offer these suggestions to help reduce future staining and maintain white teeth.

Eliminate stain-producing foods and beverages

Regularly eating and drinking some richly colored foods can stain teeth. Among the foods and beverage that are known for causing tooth discoloration are:

• Blueberries and blackberries
• Coffee and tea
• Wine and soda
• Tomatoes and beets
• Balsamic vinegar and soy sauce

Some foods stain the outer enamel layer. Others are acidic and cause the enamel to wear away, allowing stain-producing particles to reach deep within a tooth's structure.

Opt for stain-reducing foods and beverages

Although some food and beverage items deposit stain-producing pigments on teeth, others help maintain a whiter smile. Foods including celery, apples, strawberries, and carrots contain abundant water and fiber to help carry away stain-producing deposits, including bacteria. Nuts and seeds can gently scrape tooth surfaces to remove light stains without damaging the enamel.

Avoid smoking

Yellow and brown teeth stains are a telltale sign that someone smokes. Achieving a beautiful smile can be an excellent incentive for patients to stop smoking. Smokers who want to avoid reversing the benefits of laser teeth whitening should have a smoking cessation plan in place before undergoing treatment.

Use a straw

Patients who prefer not to eliminate beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda can use a straw while drinking them. Straws prevent bathing teeth with liquids containing stain-producing pigments.

Brush regularly

Anyone who wants healthy-looking teeth should develop good oral hygiene habits. Brushing gently after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush can prevent bacteria from settling on teeth. Bacteria cause stains by compromising tooth enamel and allowing staining substances to reach inner tooth layers.

Use whitening toothpaste

Surface stains can leave teeth looking dull and dingy but are relatively easy to remove. Regular use of a whitening toothpaste containing silica can remove enamel stains effectively. Toothpaste formulated with hydrogen peroxide can prevent staining of the inner dentin layer.

Schedule routine dental visits

In addition to removing plaque and tartar that cause gum disease, scheduling a professional dental cleaning every six months can help keep teeth white. Dental tools that polish teeth can prevent superficial stains from extending into the dentin layers, where further laser treatments become necessary to address them.