Coffee is one of the most popular beverages the world over. It’s rich in antioxidants and other healthful compounds. It’s also known to be both energizing and invigorating. But for those who use Crest Whitestrips – or any kind of tooth whitening product – is it safe to drink coffee after using Crest Whitestrips?
Generally, yes drinking coffee after Crest Whitestrips is safe. In fact, many dentists recommend drinking coffee and other darker coloured beverages, like tea and certain juices, after teeth whitening treatments to keep your freshly whitened teeth white.
According to Dr. Michael A. Sesemann of the Sesemann Dentistry and Facial Esthetics centre in Des Moines, Iowa, “When using Crest Whitestrips, coffee, tea, and other dark coloured beverages can still be enjoyed as long as you brush, floss, and use mouthwash on a daily basis. However, if you’re using another type of teeth whitening product, like a stronger bleaching gel, it’s generally not recommended to consume coffee right after.”
The reason for this is that the chemicals in Crest Whitestrips are not as strong as other teeth whitening products and therefore your teeth are not as susceptible to staining afterwards. When combined with regular oral health habits such as brushing, flossing, and the use of a good mouthwash, Crest Whitestrips can help keep your teeth white for an extended amount of time.
That being said, it is still important to limit your consumption of coffee and other coloured beverages to avoid excessive staining of your teeth. If you do choose to drink coffee after using Crest Whitestrips, it’s highly recommended to be sure that you brush a few minutes later, to help reduce the chances of your teeth becoming stained.
Another aspect to consider is that if the product you’re using is a stronger bleaching gel, the chemicals can not only damage the enamel on your teeth, but also possibly intensify any existing tooth sensitivity you may have. In these cases, it’s best to limit your consumption of darker coloured beverages – including coffee – for two or three days following the bleaching procedure.
Home Teeth Whitening Kits
Home teeth whitening kits, such as Crest Whitestrips, have become increasingly popular over the past few years, as more and more people look to achieve a brighter, whiter smile without the need to visit a dental professional. Home kits typically come with a range of options and concentrations to choose from, so it’s always best to do your research before making a purchase.
When using home kits, be aware of allergic reactions and sensitivity. Always read the instructions carefully, and if you are unsure of any instructions, consult with your dentist for advice before starting the whitening process. Depending on the product, you may also need to wear a gum shield to protect the sensitive areas of your mouth.
It’s also important to be aware of the potential side effects of any home teeth whitening kit. These can include pain or sensitivity in the teeth, gums or tongue; a burning sensation in the mouth or throat; and even skin discolouration if the gel is accidentally left on the gums.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Despite the convenience of home kits, professional teeth whitening can provide more extensive and lasting results. It’s always best to consult with your dentist before deciding which whitening method is right for you. This is especially important if you have any existing dental issues that need to be addressed beforehand.
Professional teeth whitening typically takes place in the dentist’s office, although at-home treatments may also be available in some cases. In-office whitening treatments typically involve the use of a stronger bleaching agent, along with a use of a laser to activate it, while at-home treatments come in the form of prescription-strength trays, gels and strips.
Professional teeth whitening treatments are generally much more expensive than home kits and can often be accompanied by other procedures, such as dental cleaning and fillings. As such, it’s important to factor this into your decision, as professional teeth whitening will require more of an investment on your part.
Final Thoughts
As previously mentioned, drinking coffee after using Crest Whitestrips is generally safe, although it’s important to brush after consumption to reduce the chances of staining. Other whitening products may require that you limit your consumption of coffee and other darker coloured beverages, especially if you have any existing issues with sensitivity.
For those looking to achieve a brighter, whiter smile without the need to visit a dentist, home teeth whitening kits provide a convenient and often more affordable option. However, professional teeth whitening can provide more extensive and lasting results.
Ultimately, the choice of which whitening method is right for you depends on your budget, desired results and any existing dental issues that need to be addressed. Be sure to arm yourself with all the necessary information before making a decision, and always consult with your dentist for advice.
Risks of Teeth Whitening
Like anything involving teeth, there are certain potential risks involved with teeth whitening. While the active ingredients used in teeth whitening products are generally considered safe and effective, there are factors that can increase the likelihood of harm or side effects.
For instance, people with existing dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or worn enamel may be more likely to experience complications from teeth whitening. It’s important to discuss any existing dental issues with your dentist prior to beginning teeth whitening treatment.
It’s also important to be aware of the potential side effects of teeth whitening, which can include pain or sensitivity in the teeth, gums or tongue; a burning sensation in the mouth or throat; and even skin discolouration if the gel is accidentally left on the gums.
As with any medical or dental procedure, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before embarking on a whitening treatment.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Children?
The short answer is: no, teeth whitening should not be done for people younger than 16 years old. Professional teeth whitening products contain bleaching agents that can be very harsh on young teeth and gums, as they are still growing and developing.
However, there is an alternative to teeth whitening that is suitable for use in children. This is known as “tooth lightening”, which involves the application of a special light on the teeth in order to reduce the appearance of discolouration.
It’s important to note that tooth lightening will not remove any existing stains or discolorations, so it’s important to first discuss any existing dental issues with your dentist.
In addition, there are over-the-counter teeth whitening products that are specifically designed for use by children. These products typically contain gentler ingredients, such as baking soda and naturally derived whitening agents.
Before using any products on your child’s teeth, it’s important to consult with your dentist to make sure that they are age appropriate and safe to use.
Conclusion
Drinking coffee after using Crest Whitestrips is generally safe, although it’s important to brush after consumption to reduce the chances of staining. Professional teeth whitening can provide more extensive and lasting results, although home kits provide a more convenient and often more affordable option.
As with any medical or dental procedure, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before embarking on a whitening treatment, and professional teeth whitening should not be done for those younger than 16 years old, due to the harshness of the chemicals used.
