One of the most common cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening, which gives you a gorgeous, self-assured smile. It’s important to follow certain rules after teeth whitening to ensure your smile remains radiant and lovely. Your teeth’s ability to retain their whitening properties can be affected by the foods and beverages you eat. To ensure you enjoy your glistening smile for longer, we will discuss the top 7 offenders to avoid after teeth whitening. 

1. Coffee and Tea 

Tea and coffee are both known to discolor teeth, and they can swiftly undo the benefits of teeth whitening. These beverages contain tannins, which can discolor. It’s advisable to wait at least 48 hours after your teeth whitening before drinking your morning cup of coffee. 

2. Red Wine

Another culprit when it comes to discoloring teeth is red wine. Red wines’ acidity and deep pigmentation can easily penetrate the enamel, particularly following a whitening procedure. Try waiting a few days before indulging if you’re eager for a glass. As an alternative use, white wine is less likely to leave stains. It’s best to exercise caution when drinking dark beverages after professional teeth whitening in Cypress because your enamel is more porous and prone to discoloration. 

3. Tomato-Based Sauces

Tomato-based sauces like ketchup or marinara are high in pigments and acid, which can stick to teeth. These foods can quickly darken your enamel, making them especially problematic after teeth whitening treatment. To reduce staining, consider rinsing your mouth with water after eating pasta or pizza with tomato sauce. 

4. Dark Berries

Berries such as pomegranates, blackberries, and blueberries are rich in health benefits and antioxidants, but they can also discolor teeth. These fruit-rich hues can rapidly change how white your smile is. If you’re in the mood for a fruit salad, think about switching to lighter-colored fruits like apples or bananas. 

5. Dark and Cola Sodas

Drinks with carbonation, particularly dark sodas like cola, can seriously harm your radiant smile. They are acidic, which can erode enamel and increase the chances of stains on your teeth, in addition to containing dark coloring agents. Avoiding these drinks for a few days after whitening is advised. 

6. Soy Sauce and Balsamic Vinegar 

Teeth can be discolored by dark liquids like balsamic vinegar and soy sauce. They enhance the taste of your food, but they can also make your smile less white. In the days after your whitening procedure, dress your salads with lighter options like lemon juice or olive oil. 

7. Energy and Sports Drinks

Energy and sports drinks, which are often brightly colored, can leave stains over time. These drinks with artificial dyes can quickly discolor teeth, and their high sugar content can promote plaque buildup, increasing the likelihood of staining. After your teeth-whitening procedure, limit your intake to water or clear drinks to maintain a bright smile. 

Conclusion: Preserve The Results While Safeguarding Your Smile 

It doesn’t have to be difficult to keep your smile looking great after professional teeth whitening in Cypress. Avoiding these seven foods and beverages will help you prolong the effects of your teeth whitening. Remember that, even though your teeth are more susceptible, maintaining your results can be greatly aided by practicing good oral hygiene and choosing carefully what to eat and drink immediately after the procedure. 

Get in touch with Fair Lakes Family Dentistry right now for the best treatment and guidance on teeth whitening. Allow us to assist you in maintaining the best possible smile! 

FAQs

How​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ long should I wait before drinking coffee after teeth whitening?

It’s best not to drink coffee for at least 48 hours after the whitening.

Can I drink white wine after a whitening session?

Compared to red wine, white wine is less likely to stain your teeth. However, it is still better not to take any wine for the first few days after your treatment.

Are there any foods that help maintain teeth whitening results?

Crispy vegetables and apples are good for the natural cleaning of your teeth, and, thus, excellent to eat right after whitening.

How often should I get teeth whitening treatments?

The frequency of teeth whitening treatments depends on your lifestyle and the level of dental care you provide. Normally, you can refresh your whitening treatment every 6 to 12 months. You should always ask your dentist before making a decision.

Can I still eat foods like pasta after whitening?

Certainly, but you should avoid heavy tomato sauces, as they can stain your teeth. If possible, choose light sauces.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter teeth whitening products after professional whitening?

In most cases, it is safe. However, you should check with your dentist before using whitening products at home to ensure they do not damage your enamel.

Can I use toothpaste with whitening agents after professional whitening?

Yes, but be cautious with the usage. Whitening toothpaste that is abrasive and is used excessively can lead to enamel damage, so it’s better to use it ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌occasionally.