Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can enhance the appearance of your smile, boost confidence, and brighten your overall look. However, to ensure the best results and avoid any potential complications, it is crucial to take certain precautions before undergoing teeth whitening. Whether you are using an over-the-counter whitening product or visiting a dentist for professional whitening, knowing what to avoid beforehand can make a significant difference.
This article will cover the essential things you should not do before teeth whitening, providing you with detailed advice on how to prepare properly for the procedure.
1. Don’t Skip a Dental Checkup
Before deciding to whiten your teeth, it’s important to have a professional dental checkup. This ensures that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening. Whitening products, whether used at home or professionally, can exacerbate underlying dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease.
If you have untreated dental issues, such as cavities, these should be addressed first. Whitening agents can seep into the exposed nerves of decayed teeth, causing sensitivity or even pain. Gum disease may also lead to discomfort or irritation during whitening.
2. Don’t Eat Staining Foods and Drinks
Leading up to your whitening treatment, it’s wise to avoid certain foods and beverages that can stain your teeth. These include:
Coffee and tea: Both of these beverages are notorious for leaving stains on your teeth.
Red wine: The dark pigments in red wine can adhere to your enamel, making it harder to achieve a noticeable whitening effect.
Berries: Blueberries, blackberries, and other deeply pigmented fruits can leave marks on your teeth.
Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar: These condiments are acidic and dark, which can stain teeth over time.
Avoid consuming these foods and drinks for at least 24-48 hours before your whitening session. This gives your teeth a chance to be in their cleanest, least-stained state before the treatment.
3. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
Tobacco use, whether through smoking or chewing, can have a significant negative impact on your teeth’s appearance.
Nicotine and tar are notorious for causing deep stains on your teeth. If you are planning to whiten your teeth, it is advisable to stop smoking at least 48 hours before your treatment. This not only reduces the risk of stubborn staining but also enhances the effectiveness of the whitening procedure.
If you continue smoking or using tobacco products after whitening, you may find that the results fade quickly, making it harder to maintain a bright smile.
4. Don’t Use Whitening Toothpaste Immediately Before the Procedure
Whitening toothpaste is designed to remove surface stains on your teeth, but using it just before your whitening session can be counterproductive. These toothpastes often contain abrasive particles that can temporarily weaken your enamel. Using them too close to your whitening treatment may make your teeth more sensitive during the procedure.
Instead, stick to a gentle fluoride toothpaste for a couple of days leading up to your whitening appointment. This will allow your enamel to remain intact and healthy, helping to reduce potential sensitivity and discomfort during the whitening process.
5. Don’t Skip Proper Oral Hygiene
While this may seem obvious, maintaining good oral hygiene before whitening is crucial. Make sure you brush and floss your teeth thoroughly the day before your whitening session. Plaque buildup on your teeth can prevent whitening products from making direct contact with your enamel, reducing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Additionally, a clean mouth is less likely to experience irritation from the whitening agents, making the procedure more comfortable.
However, avoid using mouthwash with alcohol right before the session, as alcohol can dry out your mouth, potentially increasing sensitivity.
6. Don’t Have Whiteners Applied on Sensitive Teeth Without Consultation
If you have naturally sensitive teeth or if you have been experiencing discomfort due to conditions such as receding gums, be sure to consult with your dentist before proceeding with whitening. Whitening agents can aggravate tooth sensitivity and may even cause painful reactions in some individuals.
It’s recommended to undergo a consultation with a dental professional if you have any concerns. Your dentist can advise on special treatments or products designed to minimize sensitivity, ensuring a more comfortable whitening experience.
7. Don’t Use Whitening Products If You Have Dental Restorations
Whitening products generally do not affect dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have any of these dental work pieces, it’s important to understand that they won’t whiten along with your natural teeth. This can lead to uneven coloring or noticeable contrasts between your natural teeth and the restorations.
If you are considering whitening and have dental work, it’s essential to talk with your dentist. They may recommend alternative cosmetic procedures to balance the color of your teeth and restorations after whitening.
8. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Post-Treatment Care
What you do after your teeth whitening treatment is just as important as what you avoid beforehand. After whitening, your teeth will be more susceptible to staining and sensitivity. For the first 24-48 hours, it’s best to avoid:
Colored foods and beverages (like those mentioned earlier).
Hot and cold foods: Due to increased sensitivity, you should avoid extreme temperatures that might cause discomfort.
Maintaining your new, whiter smile requires ongoing care, so be mindful of your diet and oral hygiene routine even after the treatment.
9. Don’t Forget to Use a Whitening Tray or Gel Correctly
If you’re using at-home whitening kits, always follow the instructions carefully. Overuse of whitening gels or improper application can lead to gum irritation or excessive tooth sensitivity. Never leave the whitening agent on for longer than recommended, and always use the provided tray to ensure an even application.
Remember that more isn’t always better when it comes to teeth whitening. Using a whitening product excessively can damage your enamel and lead to undesirable effects like yellowing or uneven coloring.
10. Don’t Use Whitening Treatments If You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding
While there is limited research on the safety of teeth whitening during pregnancy and breastfeeding, many dental professionals recommend avoiding it during these periods. The active ingredients in some whitening products may be absorbed into the bloodstream, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Consult with your dentist if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, as they may recommend postponing the whitening procedure until after you’ve finished nursing or given birth.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to enhance your smile, but it’s important to properly prepare for the treatment to ensure the best possible results. By avoiding certain foods, habits, and treatments before whitening, you can minimize the risks of discomfort, sensitivity, and uneven results. Always consult with your dentist before starting any whitening treatment, especially if you have sensitive teeth or dental restorations.
