Teeth whitening is probably one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments nowadays. It can remarkably lighten your smile and boost your self-confidence in one visit. But what most individuals are not aware of is that the initial 24 to 72 hours following a whitening procedure are the most important. These are the periods when your teeth are more absorbent and tend to soak up stains from particular foods and liquids.
Whether you’ve just had teeth whitening in Livonia or are planning to schedule a session soon, it’s essential to know what foods and drinks to avoid to preserve those pearly whites.
Why Post-Whitening Diet Matters?
After a whitening session, the enamel becomes slightly dehydrated and more vulnerable to discoloration. Think of your teeth like a sponge; anything dark, acidic, or staining can undo the results you’ve just paid for.
That’s why being mindful of your diet for a few days can make all the difference in how long your results last.
Food And Drink to Avoid After Teeth Whitening
This will directly affect your teeth and leave stains on them after a bleaching treatment:
Coffee And Tea
They are both very pigmented and acidic and can soften and stain enamel. If you cannot avoid eating them, drink them through a straw and then rinse your mouth with water.
Red Wine
Red wine has dark tannins and acids that stain teeth fast. It’s one of the largest post-whitening don’ts.
Colored Sodas
Colored sodas such as cola or root beer stain as well as wear away enamel with their acidity.
Berries and Dark Fruits
Blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and pomegranates are healthy but chock-full of potent pigments. Even juices that include them have a tendency to stain.
Tomato-Based Sauces
Dishes such as pasta with marinara sauce or pizza tend to stain due to their high acidity and saturated color.
Soy Sauce And Balsamic Vinegar
These sauces are highly pigmented and are likely to tint your teeth when consumed immediately after whitening.
Beets
Beets contain natural pigments that can stain nearly anything, including your just-whitened teeth.
The “White Diet”: What You Can Eat Instead
So what do you eat after whitening teeth? Stick to what’s sometimes referred to as the “white diet,” a colorless or light-colored food regimen that keeps your bright smile.
Safe food choices include:
- White rice or pasta
- Chicken or turkey (unseasoned or lightly seasoned)
- Cauliflower, potatoes, and mushrooms
- Eggs (especially egg whites)
- Bananas and apples (peeled)
- White fish or tofu
These are considered very suitable food for whitening teeth maintenance, as they are non-staining and gentle on your enamel.
More Tips for Long-Lasting Results
If you’re asking yourself what else you can do to help safeguard your smile before and after teeth whitening, here are some additional tips:
- Drink through a straw when consuming anything that could stain (yes, even green juice).
- Gently brush with a whitening toothpaste to keep your teeth bright.
- Rinse with water after each meal or snack to wash away possible staining substances.
- Steer clear of smoking and tobacco products, as they can instantly reverse whitening results.
Even with proper care, staining is unavoidable eventually, but being cautious can make your results last a lot longer.
Get A Brighter Smile With DDS Livonia
Maintaining your diet after whitening is key to having a stunning smile. DDS Livonia offers professional teeth whitening in Livonia that provides quick, safe, and stunning results. From preparing for the big night out to just wanting a brighter smile, we are here for you.
Still looking for teeth whitening near you? Stop here. We’ll walk you through what happens before and after teeth whitening and help your smile shine brighter long after you leave our office.
So, whether you’ve just had teeth whitening in Livonia or are planning to schedule a session soon, it’s essential to preserve those pearly whites. Talk today with DDS Livonia, and let us assist you in getting the bright, white smile you’ve always dreamed of!