Teeth whitening is one of the most popular and cost-effective methods to improve your smile. Whether you choose to undergo an in-office process or use take-home kits, you can be sure to enjoy your results for several months to over a year. However, some factors can affect how long your cosmetic solution lasts, including your diet. Keep reading to learn about four foods you should avoid following your teeth whitening procedure!
#1: Dark Pigmented Foods
The last thing you’d want to do after freshly brightening your pearly whites is to munch on treats that contain pigmented dyes. These may include some of your favorite sweets, such as chocolate candy, popsicles, and even sports drinks. Many of these items can become sticky and cover the surfaces of your smile, making it difficult to remove and avoid staining. Be sure to stay clear of these treats if you want to make the most of your cosmetic treatment.
#2: Dark-Colored Drinks
Similar to pigmented foods, you’ll want to keep from drinking dark-colored beverages at least for a few days after your appointment. This means you’ll need to avoid consuming tea, soda, or enjoying a warm cup of coffee in the morning. These liquids can get stuck in the pores of your teeth, which may be the cause of discoloration in the first place. If you do choose to drink any of these beverages, be sure to at least rinse your mouth with water afterward.
#3: Acidic Meals
It’s important to note that your teeth may be slightly weakened after professional whitening treatment due to the bleaching agents. While this won’t damage your enamel, it can leave them slightly exposed and vulnerable to wear and tear. That’s why you’ll want to stay away from eating acidic foods, such as citrus fruits (like limes and lemons), pineapples, pickles, and even tomatoes. Meals consisting of these components can put your smile at risk of sensitivity to temperatures, acid erosion, and susceptibility to discoloration.
#4: Dark-Colored Fruits & Veggies
While fruits and vegetables are generally included in a well-balanced diet, many of them can also be detrimental to your teeth whitening results. Certain foods like berries, grapes, cherries, carrots, and leafy greens may be dark enough to cause stains, especially if eaten right after your procedure. Try switching these out with lighter-colored foods and drinks, and make sure to rinse and brush your teeth after your meals to preserve your newly whitened smile.
By staying clear of these foods and drinks, you can be sure to maintain your results for a much longer time. Make sure to also visit your dentist regularly, and they’ll be glad to ensure your teeth stay in pristine condition for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Mark M. Farthing earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has delivered excellent care for nearly four decades. He also seeks continuing education from the Dawson Academy to stay on top of the latest developments in the field. He provides a wide selection of advanced treatments, including in-office and at-home teeth whitening. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, feel free to visit our website or call 317-898-3384.