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How to Rehydrate Teeth After Whitening: Guide to Dehydrated Teeth

Natalie Asmussen
Contributor:
Natalie Asmussen
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Are you curious about dehydrated teeth and want to know how to rehydrate teeth after whitening? Seeing white streaks or spots on teeth after whitening can be concerning. That's why Dentaly.org wants to provide you with all of the facts.

In this article you learn:

  • How does whitening work?
  • How long does whitening take?
  • What are white spots after teeth whitening?
  • What are signs of teeth dehydration?
  • What causes teeth to be dehydrated?
  • How to close pores on teeth after whitening
  • How to rehydrate your teeth
  • How long does it take to rehydrate teeth?

By providing this information, we hope to give you all the answers to your questions and concerns involving tooth dehydration.

How does the professional teeth whitening process work?

The whitening procedure removes surface stains and deep-set stains within the tooth structure. A bleaching agent — hydrogen or carbamide peroxide — is used in the whitening gel.

The bleaching agent in the in-office treatment is around 30% stronger than the bleaching agent in the at-home kit. This is also why the two therapies have such a large price difference. Rehydrating teeth after whitening is an important aspect of maintaining a good dental routine.

How long does in-office whitening last?

It depends. Teeth whitening can last for up to two years or as little as six months. It differs from one person to the next, and results will also vary based on your oral hygiene and diet. Learn more about tooth shades here.

patchy teeth after zoom whitening
Teeth whitening gone patchy? Read more to find out how to fix this problem!

Things that will stain your teeth quickly and make your whitening short-lived include:

  • Smoking or using tobacco products
  • Staining foods like berries and fruit
  • Dark liquids like red wine, coffee, and tea
  • Acidic food and drink like sodas or lemons

Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist twice a year for dental cleanings can help you maintain whiter teeth. Avoiding certain staining foods and liquids can also help you maintain your white teeth for as long as possible. Keep in mind, however, that stains are inevitable.

What are white spots on teeth after whitening?

White spots on teeth after whitening is a result of hypo-calcification. Hypo-calcification is the loss of calcium in the tooth enamel that causes discoloration. Too much fluoride, a high-sugar or acidic diet, or excessive plaque buildup can all create these spots.

Teeth whitening does not generate white spots on your teeth; nevertheless, it can make spots that are already there more noticeable.

After orthodontic bands and brackets are removed, white patches may become more evident. It can be difficult to get rid of these spots because some teeth whitening techniques make the hypo-calcified areas look considerably brighter than the rest of the tooth.

What are signs of dehydrated teeth after whitening?

spot teeth whitening
A dehydrated tooth may cause pain.

Even though white spots after whitening teeth don't always mean your teeth are dehydrated, it is a possibility. Another sign your teeth are dehydrated is tooth or gum pain. Other signs include:

  • Tooth pain
  • Swollen or puffy gums
  • Cracked skin or lips
  • Red gums
  • Dry or sticky tongue
  • Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss
  • Bad breath
  • Tender gums

What causes teeth dehydration?

Because teeth are porous, the bleaching agents are able to penetrate the enamel and reach the deep-set-in stains. This porousness also allows stains to penetrate the deeper layers of the tooth. Coffee, cigarettes, red wine, dark berries, and juice will discolor your teeth over time in this manner.

The use of hydrogen peroxide to remove these stains is an important part of the whitening procedure. This component aids in the opening of the tooth's pores.

As the whitening gel penetrates the layers of your teeth, the stains are broken down and discharged through the enlarged pores. It also raises the internal temperature of the tooth, which eliminates any moisture within the tooth. The tooth may get dehydrated as a result of this procedure.

How long are teeth porous after whitening?

Bleaching solutions cause the pores in the enamel to be softly opened up. The pores close up about two days after the whitening treatment is finished, leaving the enamel in its previous condition.

How long does it take teeth to rehydrate after whitening?

Dehydration is a temporary issue. Rehydrating your teeth can take anywhere from 2 to 7 days, but there are several things you can do to help lessen the dryness and sensitivity that comes with it.

white spots on teeth after bleaching
The best way to keep your teeth hydrated is by drinking plenty of water!

How to fix dehydrated teeth

To rehydrate teeth after whitening, it's crucial to eat a healthy diet for at least 24-48 hours. Avoid eating or drinking anything that is very hot or cold. It's also important to stay hydrated.

Your saliva contains vital nutrients that aid in the natural rehydration of your teeth. You won't create as much saliva if you aren't well hydrated; drink room temperature water through a straw to aid with sensitivity difficulties.

Conclusion

Now you know all about dehydrated teeth and how to rehydrate teeth after whitening. No need to fear those white stains on teeth after whitening. Stay hydrated, eat a healthy diet, and keep your teeth healthy!

FAQs

Why are my teeth patchy after whitening?

Patchy teeth after whitening are caused by white spots on the surface of your teeth that are usually the result of a loss of minerals in your tooth’s enamel layer. It is not uncommon for patients to notice these white spots on the surface of their teeth, especially after completing an at-home teeth whitening treatment.

Will the white spots on my teeth go away after whitening?

Eventually, yes. Spotty teeth after whitening is temporary. These spots are not harmful and will go away. Teeth whitening spots are caused by a loss of water from the tooth enamel. Rehydrating your teeth by drinking plenty of water should help this problem.

Does teeth whitening dehydrate teeth?

Sometimes. Teeth are porous, allowing whitening agents to penetrate the surface and brighten teeth. This characteristic also permits fluid to flow out of teeth, leading to dehydration. Tooth dehydration is a common side effect of whitening and has been shown to result in increased sensitivity and pain.

Do dehydrated teeth hurt?

Yes, you can feel some tooth or gum pain if your teeth are dehydrated. You may also have other symptoms such as swollen or puffy gums, dry or sticky tongue, cracked skin or lips, and bad breath.

Why do I have stained teeth after whitening?

Regardless of what teeth whitening product you use, your teeth are more prone to discoloration immediately after whitening. Your teeth's pores are somewhat more open, allowing stains to enter more easily. Remember to avoid staining foods or beverages and maintain good oral hygiene to avoid staining.

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Sources

AACD: Is Light-Accelerated Whitening Worth The Pain? Consulted 5th January 2022.

TheDentalGuide: How To Rehydrate Teeth After a Whitening Treatment. Consulted 5th January 2022.

NIH: Clinical Effects of Dehydration on Tooth Colour. Consulted 5th January 2022.