Teeth whitening is a great way to give yourself a brighter smile and score some self-confidence points at the same time. Once you get that whiter smile, you want to preserve it for as long as you can. One of the ways to do this is to know what food and beverages to avoid right after teeth whitening.
We’re going to run down the list of foods that are big “no ” after getting your teeth whitened and what you can eat. We’ll also let you know how Sninski & Schmitt can help you get the whiter smile you’ve always wanted.
What Causes Teeth Discoloration?
For many people, there isn’t just one reason for teeth discoloration. It’s often the result of several issues combined. The food you’ve eaten in the past and how well you brush your teeth can both play a role. Smoking factors into it too.
Here are some of the most common causes of tooth discoloration that lead people to get their teeth whitened:
- Drinking coffee or wine
- Too many sugary drinks
- Not brushing teeth well enough
- Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco
If you find that your teeth are suffering because of any of these habits, teeth whitening from Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry can help. Once you’ve gone through the process, you’re going to want to do everything possible to keep those teeth sparkling white. Much of that has to do with your diet.
Food and Beverages to Avoid After Teeth Whitening
There are many types of food and beverages that have artificial dyes or natural pigments that can build up over time and lead to discoloration. While you don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, you’ll want to avoid them for 2 days after your teeth whitening is complete.
Here’s what you want to avoid:
Red and White Wine: Both types of wine can impact the color and enamel of your teeth. The dark pigment of red wine can cause stains on your teeth while white wine can break down enamel.
Coffee & Tea: Both coffee and tea contain tannins which can build up over time and darken your teeth. After getting your teeth whitened, you’ll want to limit your coffee and tea consumption for a few days.
Dark Fruits: Dark-colored fruits like cherries, blackberries, and blueberries, contain pigments that can stain your teeth. If there is a fruit that is acidic, it can also lead to enamel erosion. You’ll also want to steer clear of juices containing those fruits.
Soft Drinks: Carbonated drinks have a lot of sugar and acid which can strip away tooth enamel. Any dark-colored colas can also contribute to surface stains. It’s best to avoid soft drinks all the time to have brighter and healthier teeth.
Candy: Candy and chocolates should also be avoided because they contain refined sugars that can lead to decay, erosion, and discoloration. This is especially true right after you get them whitened because they are more sensitive.
Food and Beverages Okay to Eat After Teeth Whitening
Now that you know what food and beverages to avoid after teeth whitening, you need to know what you can eat. These are foods and drinks that won’t leave teeth stained:
Water: Water is always the best choice for your oral health. There’s no risk of teeth staining or impact on your tooth enamel.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables: Any light-colored fruits and veggies are good to have after teeth whitening. Bananas, pears, potatoes, and cauliflower are all good choices. Plus, they’re healthy for you!
White Cheese & Yogurt: White cheeses and plain yogurt are good choices. Skip any flavored yogurts or any artificially colored cheeses.
Fish & Chicken: Any type of light, lean protein is healthy and great after getting your teeth whitened. Avoid any brightly colored seasonings or sauces to preserve your teeth.
White Rice: White rice gets the green light when it comes to the foods you can eat after getting your teeth whitened. White pasta is also good to have.
Contact Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry to Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Appointment
For a dental team who can work with you in getting a whiter smile while also maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums, contact your Cary and Holly Springs dentist Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry. We can take care of your cosmetic dentistry and family dentistry needs. We take a variety of insurance plans and are currently accepting new patients. Call us at our Holly Springs dentist office at (919) 600-6262 and our Cary, NC dentist office at (919) 467-2203, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.