What should we avoid after teeth whitening?

Who wouldn’t want brighter teeth and, as a result, a brighter smile? Fortunately, this is no longer an unattainable dream. Teeth whitening can now be done not only in dental clinics, but there are also countless methods for teeth whitening at home. Of course, it is best to get professional teeth whitening instead of opting for over-the-counter whitening strips. However, in order to see results in the long run, it’s important to know what foods and drinks should be avoided after teeth whitening. Read on to learn more about the topic and the so-called white diet.

What can cause tooth discolouration?

Before we get into what foods and beverages should be avoided after teeth whitening, let’s explore what may cause tooth discoloration. 

Whether your teeth are white or not often depends on genetic factors. Not everyone’s teeth are perfectly white. Some people tend to have naturally brighter or thicker enamel, others’ teeth are less white. This is due to the fact that the colour of your teeth is determined by the structure and density of the tissues that compose your teeth.

However, in addition to genetic factors, there are also external factors that can discolour your teeth.

First and foremost, it’s important to put emphasis on proper oral hygiene. If dental plaque deposited on one’s teeth is not removed properly, it hardens, and yellowish-brown tartar will form over time. Unfortunately, the process goes almost unnoticed since it is painless. 

It’s essential to know that dental plaque is not only aesthetically detrimental but can also lead to more serious diseases. It may result in cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. 

Another external factor is food. Many types of foods and beverages can discolour your teeth. Common teeth-staining foods include coffee, black tea, red wine, tomato-based sauces, blueberries, refined sugar. These can easily wear away enamel, which is the outer cover of your teeth, and cause stains. 

It is also necessary to mention the harmful effects of smoking, as it plays a major role in staining one’s teeth. As a result of smoking, white teeth become yellow in a short period of time. This is caused by the nicotine and tar in the cigarettes.

Steps to take before whitening your teeth

If you’re considering a professional (or other types of) teeth whitening, a dental consultation is essential for many reasons.

First, you need to find the best solution for your teeth. You may not be aware of this, but tooth whitening is not for everyone. A dental check-up can easily assess what would be best for your teeth. 

On the other hand, your gum and teeth need to be examined thoroughly. If you want whiter teeth, you need to start with a healthy mouth. Any existing dental problems – including cavity or decay – must be treated before teeth whitening. Failure to do so can make your existing problems worse and the process can damage the dental nerve.

Even if you opt for over-the-counter whitening strips, make sure that you go through a professional dental examination first.

Foods and drinks that should be avoided after teeth whitening

It is important to know that the treatment itself does not mean the end of the teeth whitening process. If you want long-lasting results, there are certain foods and beverages that should be avoided after teeth whitening for 10-14 days.

Tooth sensitivity may occur after the whitening process but there is nothing to be scared of, it is normal. However, you need to take extra care of your teeth.

During teeth whitening, water is removed from the teeth, which makes them more sensitive. Usually, your teeth need 14 days to recover after the process. 

During this period, you should avoid consuming food that is too hot or too cold due to tooth sensitivity.

Apart from that, you need to avoid acidic, pigmented foods and beverages because they can cause discolouration. After teeth whitening, the dentin layer becomes exposed, and dark-coloured foods are easily absorbed into your teeth. 

As a result, a so-called white diet should follow your teeth whitening treatment. This means consuming foods and drinks that are white or light-coloured.

Let’s take a closer look at what foods and drinks should be avoided after teeth whitening and what foods are recommended. 

Foods that you can have after teeth whitening with your white diet

• Chicken
• Turkey
• Tofu
• Fish
• Eggs
• Rice
• White dairy products (plain yogurts, milk, cheese)
• Potatoes
• Almonds
• Cashew nuts
• Hazelnuts
• Chickpeas
• Cauliflower
• Pears, Bananas, Apples
• Pasta
• Bread
• Rice

Foods you cannot have after teeth whitening

Since you need to limit the amount of pigments that come into contact with your teeth, it’s better to avoid the following types of foods:

• Tomatoes
• Beetroot
• Carrots
• Spinach
• Berries (blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
• All dark fruits
• Beverages or jams made from berries
• Coffee
• Tea
• Chocolate
• Red wine
• Soy sauce
• Acidic food
• Soft drinks, energy drinks
• Candies
• Chocolate
• Sausages
• Curry

In addition to avoiding the above foods, it is recommended to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth. We also recommend avoiding coloured mouthwashes or toothpaste for 14 days after your teeth whitening treatment.

What else can you do to protect your teeth after whitening?

We have already mentioned above that coffee should be avoided, along with smoking, of course. However, a lot of people can’t give up their favourite morning drink for 14 days. If you can’t resist coffee, use a straw. This is the best way to prevent the liquid from coming into direct contact with your teeth for too long.

It is important to point out that if you keep on smoking, your teeth will probably turn yellow again much sooner.

How long does the result of teeth whitening last?

It largely depends on your eating habits, but it’s also important to maintain good oral health. With proper diet and dental hygiene, the results of teeth whitening can last up to a year.

Closing thoughts

Teeth whitening is completely harmless to teeth health. The treatment is safe and painless. But you should do it once every two years at most. Frequent teeth whitening can damage the enamel and gums, while dehydration can cause microcracks in the teeth.

It is important to keep in mind what foods and drinks should be avoided after teeth whitening, as they may cause discolouration in the first two weeks. To maintain the white colour and brightness of your teeth, a regular oral hygiene routine is essential.

If we can help, book an appointment for a dental consultation or professional teeth whitening.