How long after Teeth Whitening Strips Can I Drink Coffee?
Having coffee stains in your teeth is a common issue among coffee drinkers, but with the use of teeth whitening strips you can reverse the discoloring and get back your pearly whites. But, how long after teeth whitening strips can you enjoy a cup of coffee without ruining the results? The answer is not always simple or clear; this article will discuss what to expect after using teeth whitening strips and how you can extend their effects on your teeth.
Generally, using teeth whitening strips can lighten the color of your teeth instantly and make them look glossier. However, these effects usually do not last long. According to experts, the effect of teeth whitening strips is temporary and they may last anywhere from a few days to two to three weeks, depending on how often you use them. Therefore, you should think of them as a spot treatment that works to reverse the discoloration of your teeth.
When it comes to maintaining the results of the teeth whitening strips, the consumption of coffee and other dark beverages will have a significant impact. If you drink coffee right after using the strips, it can roll back the gains you have achieved and discolor your teeth over time. The acidity and dark color present in coffee are the main culprits behind the discoloration. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid them the first 24 hours after you have used the strips.
However, after the 24-hour period, the effects of the teeth whitening strips can be extended by brushing your teeth right after a cup of coffee. Make sure that you are using a fluoride toothpaste and follow it up with rinsing your mouth with a cup of water. As an alternative, you may also rinse or chew a sugar-free gum as it helps to stimulate saliva flow, which helps to remove the stains caused by the acid and dark pigments from the coffee.
Apart from rinsing with water and brushing your teeth, avoiding staining beverages such as coffee and dark-colored sodas is recommended for the long-term maintenance of the results of teeth whitening strips. Additionally, periodically touching up your teeth with a whitening strip or dental bleaching treatment can help preserve the lighter color of your teeth.
In addition, you should also factor in your diet and lifestyle when using teeth whitening strips. If you smoke or consume wines, teas, and other acidic beverages regularly, the results of the whitening strips may not last as long. Therefore, you should visit your dentist periodically and consult with them to maintain your brighter smile.
Indexing versus Whitening Strips
If you are looking for a more long-lasting solution to whitening your teeth, you can consider a dental bleaching procedure, usually referred to as power bleaching or professional teeth whitening. As the name suggests, this is done by a professional and since it is done in a specialized setting, the results are longer-lasting as compared to teeth whitening strips.
Apart from dental bleaching, you can also consider a procedure known as tooth indexing. This procedure involves a mold of your teeth being taken and sent to a lab where a tooth discoloration solution is applied over the teeth you selected. The discoloration solution is composed of a bleaching agent that can be matched to the rest of the teeth in your mouth.
Compared to other teeth whitening treatments, this one is more expensive but it is also long-lasting and provides better results. The procedure is done in two sessions with the second one being a maintenance session done every few months to maintain the whiteness of your teeth.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Kits
In addition to teeth whitening strips, there are various over-the-counter products available. These can come in the form of bleaching trays, gels, or strips. Many of these products are sold in supermarkets and drugstores, however, they rarely work as well as those provided by a licensed dentist.
One advantage of using over-the-counter products is that you can save money on your dental bills. However, it should be noted that over-the-counter products do not generally provide the same level of results as those provided by a professional dentist and they can be cumbersome and time-consuming to use.
Therefore, it is important to do your research ahead of time and read the reviews of the product you are looking to purchase and also discuss your options with a dentist before starting any treatment.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Regime
If you want to keep your teeth whiter for a longer period of time, it is essential to follow a regular teeth whitening regime. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day and avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth like coffee and alcohol.
In addition, you can also consult with your dentist about regular bleaching treatments or touch-ups. You may also consider investing in a home bleaching kit or opting for professional whitening treatments. However, these treatments should be done under the supervision of a professional.
Precautions
It is important to be mindful when using any teeth whitening product, including whitening strips. Before using whitening strips, it is recommended that you talk to your dentist and ensure that your teeth are healthy without cavities, holes, and deep cracks as these products may not have the desired effects on such damaged teeth.
In addition, avoid using whitening strips too often as they can damage the enamel of your teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and even discomfort. Also, make sure that you read the instructions for each product carefully and do not exceed the recommended usage time.
Diet Changes and Teeth Whitening
Apart from teeth whitening products, you can also consider making changes to your diet to influence the color of your teeth. Consuming foods high in Vitamin C and Calcium can help to keep your enamel strong and healthy. Additionally, you should avoid excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods, as these can damage your teeth and lead to discoloration.
You can also consider adding natural teeth whitening products to your diet. For example, using apples and carrots as snacks and eating more leafy greens can help to keep your teeth healthy and reduce discoloration over time. On the other hand, overconsumption of these foods can cause excessive wear on the enamel, so it should be done with caution.
Lastly, using straws while drinking staining beverages such as coffee and soda can also help to keep your teeth looking brighter. Since the straw’s passage is longer, it prevents the drink from coming into contact with your teeth, which can cause discoloration over time.
Additional Habits for Teeth Whitening Maintenance
Apart from diet and lifestyle changes, there are few additional habits you can adopt to help maintain the results of teeth whitening strips or products. One useful tip is to use mouthwash on a daily basis, as it can help to get rid of any discolored material stuck in-between your teeth.
Also, try to avoid bad habits such as smoking, as it will eventually lead to discoloration of your teeth. Finally, schedule regular visits to your dentist to help examine and clean your teeth. Your dentist can provide recommendations on the best whitening treatments for your teeth to ensure the best results.
