A bright, healthy smile can make you feel on top of the world. With professional teeth whitening becoming increasingly popular, it’s essential to know how to care for your freshly whitened teeth, especially when it comes to eating and drinking.
You can typically return to eating your regular diet within 24 to 48 hours after teeth whitening. However, there are certain foods or drinks that you may want to avoid to help preserve your results.
You’ve invested in refreshing a radiant smile, so why not do everything you can to help it last? Always follow your dentist’s recommendations about eating, drinking, and oral hygiene after the procedure to help maintain your professionally whitened smile.
Understanding Teeth Whitening
Whether it’s an in-office procedure or a take-home kit from your dentist, teeth whitening is designed to help break down stains and discolouration on the surface of your enamel (the hard, outer protective layer).
Dentists typically use a peroxide-based bleaching agent to lift these stains, revealing a gleaming, brighter smile underneath.
However, here’s the kicker: the whitening process can temporarily leave the enamel porous and slightly dehydrated. The sensitivity can make your teeth vulnerable to staining and damage, particularly in the first 24 to 48 hours after the treatment.
Following your dentist’s post-whitening care instructions, especially regarding diet, can help protect your enamel and promote long-lasting results.
The Waiting Period After Teeth Whitening
After a whitening treatment, dentists often recommend following the “White Diet” for 48 hours. The diet helps you avoid foods and drinks that could stain your newly whitened teeth during this vulnerable period.
Here’s the recommended timeline:
- During the first 24-48 hours, avoid any food or drinks that have strong pigments or could harm your sensitive enamel
- After 48 hours, gradually reintroduce your normal diet, but continue to avoid foods & drinks known to cause staining
You can think of it as giving your teeth extra gentle care after the treatment.
Foods & Drinks to Avoid After Teeth Whitening
What exactly should you steer clear of during those crucial first 48 hours? There are a few culprits to avoid:
- Certain beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, cola, dark sodas, & fruit juices (e.g., cranberry, orange, or grape juice)
- Certain foods like tomato sauce, soy sauce, curry, chocolate, & brightly coloured fruits (like berries)
- Spices & condiments like mustard, ketchup, & brightly coloured spices (like turmeric or paprika)
- Tobacco & smoking products
A good rule of thumb: if it can stain your white T-shirt, it can stain your teeth!
Recommended Foods to Eat After Teeth Whitening
Now that you know what to avoid, what can you eat while protecting your smile? The key is sticking to “white” or light-coloured, non-acidic, and non-sugary foods. These are gentle on your porous enamel and won’t leave stains behind.
Here’s your post-whitening food cheat sheet:
- Proteins like skinless chicken, turkey, tofu, & white fish
- Grains like plain rice, pasta, & bread (without dark-coloured sauces or spreads)
- Dairy like white cheese, milk, plain yogurt, & cream cheese
- Fruits & veggies like bananas, apples (without the peel), cauliflower, & potatoes
- Beverages like water, coconut water, & clear herbal teas
Lukewarm or room-temperature foods and drinks are better than hot or cold options to minimize further sensitivity.
Long-Term Care for a White Smile
You can return to a regular diet once you’ve passed the critical waiting period. But maintaining your bright smile can benefit from long-term care strategies.
Brush & Floss Daily
Regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing help keep your teeth healthy and stain-free. Once you’re back to your regular routine, consider using whitening toothpaste, as recommended by your dentist, to help maintain your brighter smile.
Rinse After Eating or Drinking
You don’t have to give up the foods or drinks you enjoy. If you consume staining foods or drinks, like red wine or coffee, rinse your mouth with water or drink through a straw. It’s a simple but effective step that can help minimize contact with your enamel.
Schedule Regular Cleanings
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. They can remove surface stains and help your teeth stay bright.
Avoid Smoking & Tobacco Products
Smoking and tobacco can stain your teeth and harm your oral health. If you’re a smoker, quitting can provide countless benefits for your smile and well-being.
Re-Treatment as Needed
Most teeth whitening treatments are not permanent and may require occasional touch-ups to maintain results. At Hometown Dental, we offer Zoom whitening treatment, which can provide results that can last 1 to 2 years.
Trust the Professionals for Expert Advice
Remember, every person’s teeth and whitening experience are unique. If you’re unsure about what to eat or how to care for your teeth post-whitening, it’s always a good idea to consult your dentist.
Your dentist or hygienist can provide personalized recommendations to help you protect your investment and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
Protect Your Brilliant Smile
Professional teeth whitening can help you effectively brighten your smile, but caring for your teeth afterward is just as important. Following the tips and timelines outlined here, you can help keep your pearly whites gleaming for months. When you have questions about teeth whitening or are ready to brighten your smile, contact our team at Hometown Dental to book an appointment.
