If you’ve just received teeth whitening treatment, you’re probably really excited to take your new smile out for a spin and show off your results to the world! That said, the last thing you want to happen is for your results to become dull and unimpressive, especially soon after your treatment. But did you know that the things you eat and drink can heavily influence this? Here’s what to avoid eating and what to reach for instead to keep your smile looking its brightest.
Your Teeth Are More Vulnerable to Stains After Whitening
Believe it or not, after your teeth are whitened, they are actually at a higher risk of becoming stained if you aren’t careful. Teeth whitening works by opening up the pores of your enamel to remove stains and discoloration. Even though this is what gives you dramatic results, it also means your teeth are temporarily more absorbent, making them more susceptible to the pigments found in dark-colored foods and drinks.
Foods & Drinks to Avoid Immediately After Whitening
This means that in order to give your enamel the chance to close back up, you’ll have to be especially careful in the first few days after your treatment. This means you should avoid items known to cause dental staining, including:
- Coffee and tea
- Red wine
- Dark sodas
- Tomato-based sauces, like marinara or ketchup
- Dark-colored berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries
- Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
- Curries and dishes with turmeric
- Tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco
Foods & Drinks to Enjoy Instead After Whitening
The good news is that plenty of food is non-staining, delicious, and even beneficial for your oral health during this window! Sticking to a “white diet” for a couple of days may feel limiting, but it’s a small sacrifice for long-lasting results. That said, consider options like:
- Chicken, turkey, or fish
- Rice, pasta, and potatoes
- White, low-fat cheeses
- Bananas and apples
- Cauliflower
- Regular milk
- Plain yogurt
- Water
With a little mindfulness and self-sacrifice—especially if you’re a daily coffee or wine drinker—you can ensure that your whitening results look spectacular for as long as possible!
About the Practice
Our team here at University Dental Group has proudly served families in Worcester and the surrounding communities for several years under the talented leadership of Dr. Camesia Matthews and Dr. Shadi Haidar. We offer a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatment options, including teeth whitening for patients who’d like to brighten their smiles. If you have any questions or you need to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, you can call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 372-8663.