In previous centuries, teeth whitening methods damaged patients’ enamel and left them more vulnerable to tooth decay and dental injuries. Thankfully, today’s dentists offer professional teeth whitening treatments that safely deliver remarkable results. While these treatments will not damage your teeth, your smile will be more susceptible to developing new stains for several days afterward. Here’s a brief overview of a few foods you should avoid after having your teeth whitened as well as some fare that will help your pearly whites stay bright and shiny.
What Edibles Should I Evade After Teeth Whitening?
It’s best to avoid foods and beverages that are high in acids since they can weaken your enamel as well as those that are high in pigments, tannins, and dyes that can cause stains and discoloration. A few items to dodge include:
- Dark or colorful beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, colas, sports drinks, and grape juice
- Dark condiments like ketchup, soy sauce, tomato sauce, and barbeque sauce
- Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, and limes, as these are high in acid
- Acidic beverages like coffee, soda, fruit juices, and alcohol
- Dark fruits and veggies like berries, grapes, tomatoes, beets, carrots, red cabbage, pomegranates, and dark, leafy greens like spinach
What Fare Should I Feast Upon After Teeth Whitening?
It’s best to stick to a diet of soft, mild, and white foods while taking care to get plenty of calcium and vitamin C for a few days after teeth whitening. A few examples include:
- Rice
- White yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Bananas
- Hot cereal
- Bread
- Coconut
- Sushi
- White fish
- Milk and other dairy products
While you can resume enjoying dark and acidic foods and drinks in moderation after a few days have passed since your whitening treatment, overindulging in these items can still lead to the formation of new dental stains. The best ways to keep your teeth shiny and bright after teeth whitening are to practice excellent oral hygiene, make smart eating decisions, and see your dentist regularly for routine exams and cleanings.
About the Author
Dr. Danny Hayes earned his dental degree at Temple University School of Dentistry, where he was an active member of the American Student Dental Association and the Delta Sigma Delta Dental Fraternity. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Chicago Dental Society. His office in Crown Point offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening. To learn more about preserving your teeth whitening results, contact his office online or dial (219) 663-6878.