Teeth Whitening

At the office of Sonrisa Family Dental, the care and comfort of our patients are our top priorities. Our goal is to help our patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.

FOLLOWING AN IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING PROCEDURE

1. Watch what you eat and drink
   Maximizing the benefits of a teeth whitening procedure involves being mindful of what you eat and drink. This guideline is especially true for the first 48 hours following treatment. The reason is the ultra-thin, membranous protective layer of the tooth that was temporarily removed as a result of the whitening procedure takes a couple of days to reestablish itself.

   You can protect the results by avoiding deeply colored foods and beverages that can stain your teeth!Refrain from drinking coffee, red wine, dark soft drinks, and teas. Stay away from fruits like berries and grapes, and chocolate products as well as other foods that are darkly colored.

   Feel free to eat and drink foods with a low potential to stain your teeth!

   Beverages such as water, milk, white wine, and clear soft drinks are okay. Eating fruits such as a banana or peeled apple are fine. Cheeses, as well as white foods like chicken, fish, pasta, oatmeal, potatoes, and bread prepared without red sauces or dressings, are acceptable as well.

2. Avoid Smoking
   Smoking stains and yellows your teeth under the best of circumstances. If you are a smoker and have just had your teeth whitened, it’s a good idea to refraining from the habit for at least the first couple of days. Of course, smoking less frequently after that or quitting the habit altogether not only benefits the appearance of your smile, but also your oral health and overall well-being.


3. Some sensitivity is normal
   You may experience some sensitivity to cold and hot for a couple of days. This discomfort typically subsides. We recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication just as you would for a headache. Using toothpaste such as Sensodyne, which is designed for sensitive teeth, may also be helpful.

4. Treatment Results
   While teeth whitening procedures provide satisfying outcomes of care, it’s essential to keep in mind that results vary from patient to patient. Both short-term and long-term results are influenced by the original shade of the tooth, diet, and oral habits.

   Also, as explained before treatment, teeth whitening procedures do not change the color of existing fillings, crowns, bridgework, or dental bonding. If this issue presents an aesthetic concern, we can discuss replacing a restoration.

5. Keeping your smile bright
   Maintaining the results of treatment also rely upon proper oral hygiene and routine dental care. We’ll also discuss a take-home whitening system if any periodic touch-ups are indicated following the procedure or down the road.

We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your teeth whitening procedure, feel free to contact our office.