Professional teeth whitening can give your smile a bright, beautiful boost. But your diet in the first few days after treatment is very important. During this time, your teeth can be more vulnerable to stains and sensitivity, and the wrong foods and drinks can set the stage for dulled results. If you want your newly lightened smile to last, continue reading. You’ll find several menu items you should avoid right after your glow-up.
Darkening Drinks
Some of the biggest stain culprits are actually in your cup. Try to limit or avoid:
- Coffee and espresso
- Black and green tea
- Red wine
- Caramel-colored sodas
These drinks carry strong pigments and can quickly undo your whitening if you indulge too often. If you really need your caffeine fix, use a straw with a lighter drink and alternate sips with water. If you want to go the extra mile, stick to plain water or milk for the first 24–48 hours.
Sauces, Condiments, and Pigmented Foods
If you enjoy things like:
- Tomato sauce and ketchup
- Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
- Curries and heavily spiced dishes
- Beets and dark berries
You’ll need to hold off for a little while. These foods and accoutrements can cling to enamel and leave stains behind, especially right after whitening. To add insult to injury, many sauces are acidic, further weakening your enamel and keeping your teeth vulnerable to stains. Instead, choose lighter options like cream sauces, plain chicken, rice, or potatoes.
Tobacco Products, Vape, and Alcohol
While not exactly food, tobacco, vaping, and alcohol can still work against your whitening results.
For example, smoking and vaping can dry out your mouth and leave a sticky residue on your teeth, which makes new stains easier to absorb. Many alcoholic drinks are also acidic or sugary, which can weaken your enamel.
If you can, try to cut back for a few days after treatment. Many patients use whitening as a chance to make a longer-term change for their smiles and overall health!
The longevity of your whitening treatment depends on your choices from the very start. With a little planning, you can protect your investment, eat well, and enjoy all the benefits a brighter smile can bring.
About the Author
Dr. Megan McInnis is a passionate dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry. As a member of the American Dental Association and Oregon Dental Association, she’s committed to providing conservative, high-quality care to her patients, including safe, effective professional teeth whitening options. Call (503) 761-1414 to book a whitening consultation at RiverPlace Dental or visit our website to schedule your appointment online.