Everybody loves a flashy smile. But those pearly whites just aren’t that appealing if they aren’t, well, white.

That’s why 39.09 million people got their teeth whitened in 2017.

Are you thinking about joining the droves that are whitening their teeth this year? Then there are a few do’s and don’ts that you should know.

Check them out!

Do Use Proper Oral Hygiene

Of course, you should always use proper oral hygiene. But it’s even more important to do so before you begin a whitening regimen. Especially if you’re using at-home tooth whitening strips.

If your teeth have buildup on them, the strips will not be nearly as effective. Plus, if you have undetected tooth decay the whitening chemicals can get down inside the tooth and cause both damage and pain.

It’s a good idea to begin a whitening regimen right after you’ve had your regular checkup at a reputable dentist like Forest Park Dental.

Don’t Eat Acidic Foods

Acids can break down the enamel on your teeth, making them more porous and susceptible to staining. Soft drinks are big offenders in this area, and it doesn’t matter if they’re clear or not, the acid will still do its thing.

Acidic foods and juice like lemons and grapefruit can also cause damage. If you can’t avoid these foods altogether, brush your teeth right after indulging.

Do Stick to the White Diet

You don’t have to stick to the white diet forever, but at least while you’re whitening your teeth. The chemicals in tooth whitening products can make your teeth a bit more porous, just like acid. Thus, they can absorb colored foods and stain easier.

The white diet is as simple as it sounds. Stick to foods that are white. But that doesn’t mean you have to eat unhealthily. Healthy white foods include

• Cauliflower
• Banana
• Apple
• Pear
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Chicken
• White fish, like halibut or cod
• White beans

And the list goes on. Be creative and you just might find some new favorite recipes.

Don’t Eat Dark Foods

Finding white foods to eat may not be difficult, but sometimes avoiding dark foods is. Check out some common culprits that you should stay away from during the whitening process.

• Red wine
• Soda
• Grape juice
• Blueberries
• Coffee
• Tea
• Beets

Beets may be easy to avoid but going without that morning cuppa joe? That may be a bit more difficult.

Do Check the Expiration Date

Watch the expiration date on your teeth whitening products. The main whitening ingredient is hydrogen peroxide. Over time, hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen. If that process has begun, your whitening efforts will be useless.

Don’t Overheat Your Whitening Strips

Heat will speed up the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide. Don’t leave your whitening product in the car on a hot day. Plus, if it will be a while before you use it, store it in the fridge to keep it fresher longer.

Ready to Get Your Teeth Whitened?

Are you ready to enjoy that flashy white smile you’re dreaming of? Then start getting your teeth whitened today. Follow these do’s and don’ts for maximum results and you’ll be dazzling the world in no time!

For more great useful tips about pretty much everything, feel free to check out our blog!