You’ve just left the dental chair with a noticeably brighter smile, and you want to keep it that way. Protecting your results from one of our teeth whitening treatments starts with what you eat and drink in the hours and days that follow your appointment.
You can return to your normal diet approximately 48 hours after a professional teeth whitening treatment. During this initial period, your teeth are more susceptible to staining, so it’s helpful to be mindful of your food and drink choices. This simple step helps protect your brighter smile.
The Crucial 48-Hour Window & Your Smile
After a whitening treatment, it’s important to give your teeth some time before you go back to your usual diet. For about 48 hours, your tooth enamel is more porous. This makes it easier for stains from foods and drinks to settle in and affect your results.
Why Your Teeth Are More Porous
The whitening process works by temporarily opening the tiny pores in your tooth enamel. This lets the whitening agent access and lift stains from within the tooth. It also means your teeth are more open to absorbing new pigments right after your visit.
How Long Until Tooth Pores Close
The pores in your enamel will gradually remineralize and close over the 2 days following your treatment. Once they do, your teeth are much less vulnerable to new stains. This 48-hour timeframe is the main reason for temporarily adjusting your diet.
Foods & Drinks to Skip After Whitening
A good rule of thumb is that if it can stain a white shirt, it can probably stain your teeth. During the first 2 days, you’ll want to avoid foods and drinks that are dark, acidic, or have a strong colour. These items can diminish the effects of your whitening treatment.
Dark Beverages
- Coffee and black tea
- Red wine
- Dark sodas and fruit juices like grape or cranberry juice
- Dark beers and stouts
Using a straw can help liquids bypass your front teeth. However, it’s a good idea to avoid these drinks altogether for the first couple of days. This gives you the best chance to protect your bright smile.
Acidic & Pigmented Foods
- Tomato sauce, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar
- Curry, paprika, and turmeric
- Dark berries like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries
- Beets and dark leafy greens like spinach
- Citrus fruits
Sugary Foods & Candy
Foods with a lot of sugar can sometimes contribute to tooth sensitivity after a whitening procedure. You may want to pass on items like these for a day or 2 for your comfort. This can help your teeth feel their best.
- Chocolate
- Hard candies and colourful sweets
- Cakes and cookies with coloured icing
What You Can Eat
You don’t have to go hungry while you protect your smile. Light-coloured foods and drinks are safe for your newly whitened teeth.
Lean Proteins & Dairy
- Chicken or turkey breast
- White fish
- Egg whites
- Tofu
- Plain yogurt, milk, and white cheeses like mozzarella
Light Coloured Fruits & Vegetables
- Peeled apples, pears, and bananas
- Cauliflower and white onions
- Peeled potatoes (baked or mashed)
- Mushrooms
Grains & Other Foods
- White rice, pasta, and bread
- Oatmeal or porridge (without brown sugar or maple syrup)
- Clear broth or cream-based soups
- Water (still or sparkling) and coconut water
What About Snacks Like French Fries?
Since peeled potatoes are on the approved list, plain french fries are generally okay to eat. Just be sure to skip colourful condiments like ketchup or barbecue sauce. Opt for a plain or white dipping sauce instead.
Lifestyle Habits & Your Whitening Results
What you eat and drink aren’t the only things that can affect your smile after whitening. Certain habits can work against your treatment, especially in the first few days. Being aware of these factors helps you maintain your results and avoid the need for more complex dental treatments in the future.
Tobacco Use & Stains
It’s a good idea to avoid smoking or using any tobacco products for at least 48–72 hours after whitening. The tar and nicotine in tobacco are significant staining agents. They can quickly create yellow or brown spots on your teeth.
How Alcohol Affects Your Smile
Many alcoholic beverages should be avoided for a couple of days. Red wine and dark beers are clear sources of stains. Even clear drinks can be acidic, which can temporarily weaken enamel and make your teeth more prone to staining from other sources.
How to Keep Your Bright Smile Long-Term
After the initial 48-hour period, you can return to your normal routine. However, thoughtful aftercare can help you maintain your bright smile for months to come. A few simple habits can make a lasting difference.
Your Oral Hygiene Routine After Whitening
Proper oral hygiene is key to preserving your healthy smile. Following proper brushing and flossing techniques to remove plaque will help prevent new stains from forming. Consider these tips for your routine:
- Brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Rinse with water after consuming staining foods or drinks
Smart Choices for Lasting Results
Consuming staining foods and drinks in moderation can help your results last longer. Regular dental cleanings are also an important part of removing surface stains before they can set in. Your dentist in Kitchener can offer personalized advice on a schedule that works for you.
Following these simple guidelines can help you enjoy your brighter smile for as long as possible. If you have any questions about teeth whitening or aftercare, our team at de Man & Höediono Dentistry is here to help. Feel free to contact our office to discuss your options.