Getting your teeth professionally whitened can give your smile a noticeable boost, so it’s natural to want those results to last as long as possible. While your teeth aren’t permanently more vulnerable after whitening, they can be more prone to staining for a short period following treatment. That means what you eat and drink in the days afterward can make a difference.
Fortunately, you don’t have to avoid your favorite foods forever! A little extra caution immediately after whitening can help you maintain that brighter smile.
Why Should You Watch What You Eat?
Teeth whitening treatments remove or break down stains that have accumulated on your teeth over time. Immediately afterward, your teeth may also be temporarily more sensitive.
During this period, highly pigmented foods and drinks can contribute to new discoloration. A simple rule of thumb is that if something would noticeably stain a white shirt, it may also be worth avoiding shortly after your whitening treatment.
Your dentist can tell you exactly how long you should follow any dietary restrictions based on the whitening system you received.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
Coffee and tea are two of the biggest culprits when it comes to tooth staining. Both contain pigments that can discolor your teeth, so consider taking a short break from your morning cup after whitening.
Red wine is another beverage to skip temporarily because its dark pigments can contribute to staining. Dark sodas, fruit juices, and other deeply colored drinks may also be better saved for later.
When it comes to food, be cautious with highly pigmented choices such as tomato sauce, berries, soy sauce, curry, and dark chocolate. Foods containing strong colors or sauces can potentially leave behind stains on freshly whitened teeth.
You may also want to avoid particularly acidic foods and drinks immediately after treatment. Acid can temporarily soften tooth enamel and may make sensitivity more noticeable.
What Can You Eat Instead?
The good news is that there are plenty of lighter-colored foods you can enjoy while protecting your newly brightened smile.
Think chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, white rice, pasta with a light-colored sauce, potatoes, cauliflower, and other foods that contain relatively little pigment. Bananas, peeled apples, and other lighter-colored fruits can also be convenient options.
Dairy products such as milk, plain yogurt, and cheese can be good choices, too. If your teeth feel sensitive after whitening, choosing foods that aren’t extremely hot or cold may make eating more comfortable.
Water is also your best friend during this period. Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and pigments and keeps your mouth hydrated.
How Long Should You Avoid Staining Foods?
There isn’t a universal amount of time that every patient needs to follow a restricted diet after whitening. Recommendations can vary depending on the type of treatment you receive and your individual circumstances.
Follow the specific instructions provided by your dental professional. If you do have a staining food or drink, rinsing your mouth with water afterward can help minimize the amount of pigment left behind.
Remember, avoiding staining foods is only one part of maintaining your results. Regular brushing, cleaning between your teeth, and routine dental visits can help keep your smile looking its best.
With a little planning, you can enjoy your newly brightened smile for longer.
About the Practice
United Dental Centers of Hammond provides comprehensive dental care, including professional teeth whitening for patients who want to improve the appearance of their smiles. The practice takes a patient-focused approach to cosmetic dental care and can help patients understand how to care for their smiles following whitening treatment.
Call us at (219) 933-4900 or schedule your appointment online.