After a whitening treatment, you cannot eat and drink whatever you want. Certain foods and drinks can dull your fresh white smile if you have them too soon after treatment. So, keep reading our article to learn about the foods to avoid after teeth whitening and get to know those restrictions.
What Foods to Avoid After Teeth Whitening Treatment?
As a rule of thumb, after your treatment session, you need to stay away from stain-causing foods and drinks. Their pigments or acidity can ruin your dentist’s nice work. Here are 6 types of foods to avoid:
Dark-Colored Drinks
Stay away from drinks that contain dark pigments. They can seep into your enamel and cause stains, especially after your treatment when your teeth are more sensitive. These beverages include the likes of:
- Coffee
- Black tea
- Red wine
- Dark soda
Tomato-Based Foods
Tomato sauces are among the foods to avoid after teeth whitening in Washington because they are highly pigmented and acidic. So, you better look the other way when you see these dangers to keep your newly whitened teeth safe. Here are some examples:
- Spaghetti sauce
- Pizza sauce
- Ketchup
Berries
Berries are healthy, but unfortunately, they are full of natural pigments. So they can stain your teeth. Avoid eating them immediately after your whitening session. Here are some examples:
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Raspberries
Colored Condiments
Sauces and condiments are among the foods to avoid after teeth whitening. They can darken your smile because they have deep colors. Let’s look at some examples:
- Soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Barbecue sauce
Candy and Sweets
Hard candies and sweets are delicious, but you must avoid them. They have artificial colors that can stain your teeth. These sweets also increase the risk of decay. Hard candies and sweets include:
- Lollipops
- Gummy bears
- Colored chocolates
Citrus Fruits
Acidic fruits are among the foods to avoid after teeth whitening as well. Their acidity weakens your enamel, making it easier for stains to set in. Example include:
- Dark beverages like coffee, tea, and cola
- Heavily pigmented sauces such as soy sauce and tomato sauce
- Acidic foods like pickles, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based dressings
- Dark-colored vegetables like beets or spinach
How Long to Avoid Staining Foods After Teeth Whitening?
Avoid eating staining foods for at least 48 hours after your treatment. During this time, your enamel is more vulnerable to absorbing dark pigments. If you’ve had a more intensive treatment, such as laser whitening, you better steer clear of dark-colored foods for up to 72 hours.
After this time window, you can gradually go back to your eating habits but still manage how much you eat or drink to maintain your bright smile. Also, use a straw for beverages and rinse with water after your meals to reduce the chances of staining.
Foods to Avoid After Teeth Whitening Strips
After using teeth whitening strips, your enamel becomes temporarily more sensitive and porous. So, to protect your teeth, aside from the food that we already mentioned, stay away from the items below for at least 48 hours after treatment:
- Acidic fruits like lemons and limes
- Dark sauces, such as soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
- Colored candies like sweets with dyes like red or blue gummies
What Can I Eat After Teeth Whitening?
Now that you know about the foods to avoid after teeth whitening, let’s talk about the ones you can have. Stick to lighter-colored and non-acidic foods for the first few days. They are gentle on your teeth and won’t lead to discoloration. Here’s a list of tooth-friendly options:
- Plain yogurt
- Chicken
- White fish
- White rice
- Cauliflower
- Egg whites
- Pasta
- Potatoes (without skins)
What Can I Drink After Teeth Whitening?
You have to choose drinks that won’t stain your teeth. Here are some the choice of safe beverage options to keep your smile bright:
- Water
- Milk
- Coconut water
- Clear herbal teas
Note: Avoid any dark or acidic drinks during the first 48-72 hours after your treatment.
What Foods Not to Eat After Teeth Whitening: The Bottom Line
Maintaining your bright smile after teeth whitening requires careful attention on your part. Knowing what foods to avoid after teeth whitening in the first few days will help protect your new smile. Stick to light-colored foods and drinks, and if you’re ever unsure about what to eat, the Kirkland Dental team is here to help.
FAQs
Avoid colored foods for 48-72 hours to prevent staining your teeth.
Yes, scrambled eggs (without added spices) are safe to eat after whitening.
Foods like chicken, rice, yogurt, egg whites, and white bread won’t stain your teeth.
Wait for at least 48 hours, and then start drinking coffee to avoid staining.
Yes, avocados are safe to eat as they don’t cause staining.
Yes. Severe pain after tooth whitening is not normal. Same-day dentist can check for underlying issues, such as infection or exposed nerves, and provide fast relief.
- Oranges
- Grapefruits
- Lemons
