Do you have unwanted or unsightly stains on your teeth? Many patients do, and the best way to get rid of them is through professional teeth whitening! These treatments use concentrated whitening agents like carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide to lift deep-set stains and eliminate them. However, you should watch what you eat afterward unless you want to lessen your results or hurt your pearly whites.
Continue reading to learn the worst foods and drinks to consume after a teeth whitening treatment.
1. Dark-Colored and Pigmented Food and Drink
Steer clear of dark-colored foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, soy sauce, berries, and tomato sauce. These items contain pigments that can easily stain your teeth, especially just after a whitening treatment when the pores in your enamel are more open.
2. Acidic Food and Drink
Food and drinks with high acidity like citrus fruits, vinegar-based dressings, and carbonated sodas can effectively erode your enamel. This increases tooth sensitivity and keeps your enamel susceptible to staining. Avoid these, especially in the first few days following your whitening treatment to protect your enamel and maintain your results.
3. Smoking and Tobacco Products
While not exactly “food” tobacco products, including the smoke that comes from cigarettes, affect your teeth in a big way. If you smoke or use tobacco, consider refraining from them after your teeth whitening treatment. Smoking not only stains your teeth but also increases your risk of developing oral health issues such as gum disease and oral cancer. Avoiding tobacco products can help preserve your whitening results and promote overall oral health.
4. Hot, Cold, or Hard Foods
After a teeth whitening treatment, your teeth are much more sensitive. Because of this, it’s best to avoid food and beverages that are served at temperature extremes. For example, hot coffee or ice cream could both send painful signals through your teeth because they are more exposed. Likewise, hard foods will cause unpleasant discomfort due to the pressure they put on your weakened grin.
By avoiding these foods and beverages and practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can help preserve your teeth whitening results. If you need a whitening treatment or a touch-up, talk to your dentist and ask for a consultation. You could be only an appointment away from a brilliant smile that will boost your confidence and quality of life!
About the Practice
Are you ready to restore your smile to brilliant white for more confidence? At Jacksonville Dental Specialists, Dr. Matthew Nawrocki and Dr. Richard Aguila have the technology and the know-how to get it done right. Whether you want a professional-grade teeth whitening treatment or need more extensive cosmetic treatment, they can help you achieve your smile goals. Call (904) 683-4781 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation or visit the website to browse other services they provide.