3 Ways to Protect Your Child's Teeth
Prevention and early intervention are the best tools available to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and other oral health problems. Here are three tips to help protect your child’s teeth and gums.
How to Extend the Results of Teeth Whitening
A professional teeth whitening treatment can work wonders for your smile. Studies have shown that a brighter smile can improve confidence, self-esteem, and even improve social interactions, which can be especially important for children and teenagers. However, teeth whitening treatments are not a magic wand, and it takes some effort and healthy habits to extend the shelf life of a whiter, brighter smile.
At Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics, our dentists Dr. Nathalie Phaeton and Dr. Ki Youn Kil offer teeth whitening treatments for children and teenagers at our office in Falls Church, Virginia.
How to make a teeth whitening treatment last longer
An in-office whitening treatment can brighten teeth anywhere from two to eight shades, depending on the person. The results of a teeth whitening treatment can last up to a year, or even longer in some cases, but it all depends on what you do after the treatment. Teeth that have been whitened are still as vulnerable to stains and discolorations as they were before treatment. In order to keep whitened teeth looking brighter longer, here are a few tips to lower the risk of developing new stains.
Don’t neglect oral hygiene
A good oral hygiene routine is the most important factor in maintaining a healthy and attractive smile for both children and adults. Flossing at least once a day and brushing two to three times a day or after meals will not only help to keep stains and discoloration at bay, but they will also lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you have younger children, they may need your help and supervision until they nail down adequate brushing and flossing techniques on their own.
Avoid foods and drinks known to cause dental stains and discoloration
The same drinks and meals that stain teeth in the first place will still be a problem after whitening. In fact, modifying your child’s diet is the best way to prolong the results of a whitening treatment and to protect their oral and general health in the process.
Try to limit soda and fruit juices loaded with sugar, teas and coffee, dark berries and sauces, and sugary snacks.
Don’t smoke
Sadly, smoking and tobacco use is not just a problem for adults. According to the American Lung Association, every day over 2,000 children under the age of 18 pick up a cigarette for the first time, and almost a quarter of them will get hooked and become regular smokers. In addition to the damage that smoking causes to your teeth and gums, it also drastically increases the risk of a number of serious and potentially fatal illnesses as well. Teeth whitening is a great incentive to avoid or discontinue smoking at any age.
For more information about our in-office or at-home teeth whitening services for children and teenagers, contact us today by calling 703-498-2440, or use our online booking tool to schedule your appointment.
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