5 Foods To Avoid After A Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a great way to give your appearance a boost! Teeth whitening is performed by a cosmetic dentist, and is done with whitening gel and a laser light. It is usually done in three 15-minute sessions, and is a non-invasive procedure.

Once you’ve had your teeth whitened, you’ll want to do all you can to prevent future stains and discolouration, and keep your teeth white and bright for as long as possible. There are some hard and fast aftercare rules for the first 24 hours after teeth whitening, including avoiding staining drinks, like pop, coffee and red wine, not smoking, and not using coloured toothpaste or mouthwash. It is also important to avoid staining foods. A good rule of thumb is to avoid any food or drink that would stain white fabric. Below are some foods to avoid after teeth whitening.

1. Fruit

   Fruit is highly acidic and can cause pain immediately after whitening, when teeth are more sensitive. All fruit, except bananas, should be avoided following a whitening treatment.

2. Ice Cream

   Teeth will also be more sensitive to cold foods following a whitening. Cold foods such as ice cream, frozen yogourt and popsicles may cause sensitive teeth to hurt after whitening.

3. Dark Foods

   Dark foods are more likely to stain your teeth and should be avoided after a whitening. The longer you can hold off on dark foods, the longer your whitening will last. Dark foods to avoid include dark chocolate, tomato-based soups, sauces and stews, beets, blueberries, soy sauces, and dark sauces and marinades. Basically, if it will stain your clothes, it will stain your teeth!

4. Pickles

   Pickles, both cucumbers and other pickled foods, are highly acidic and bad for the enamel of your teeth. Eating acidic foods can lead to pain and discomfort in the teeth following whitening.

5. Red Meat

   Red meat is both acidic and staining. A definite no-no following teeth whitening.

The longer you can hold off on the above foods after a teeth whitening, the longer your white smile will last! However, it’s absolutely necessary to avoid them in the first 24 to 48 hour period after your whitening, as your teeth will be extra sensitive.

Foods to Eat Following Whitening

There are plenty of foods and drinks that are fine to consume after whitening (so you don’t go hungry!). Skinless white meat, white fish and egg whites are okay to eat, as well as rice, pasta, bread, white cheese and bananas. To drink, still or sparkling water, milk and coconut water are fine. If you would like an alcoholic beverage, make sure it is a clear alcohol with a clear mix, like a gin and tonic.

Be sure to ask your dentist after your whitening to get a full list of post-whitening do’s and don’t’s!