Teeth whitening processes are a great way to brighten an individual’s smile and to build confidence too. The effect of the whitening treatment, however, may wear off quickly if post-treatment care, especially towards the diet, is not adhered to. This is especially true for what is consumed after the treatment because certain foods and beverages have a direct effect on the colour of the teeth. Some meals will work to maintain that look, while others may cause a reverse effect. It does not matter whether you have a fresh experience of whitening your teeth at a dental clinic near you or are planning to; what foods and drinks to consume and what to skip is important.
Why Does Diet Matter After Teeth Whitening?
Whitening has a short-term aftereffect, wherein the teeth become porous after treatment and thus get stained easily. This glossy charm usually subsides in twenty-four to forty-eight hours, and during this period, whatever food or drink is taken may have either positive or negative impacts on the whitening effect. Suitable diets may be taken and stains-causing diets avoided so that nice white teeth last longer.
The Ideal Foods To Consume Post-Teeth Whitening
Post-operative recommendations from dentists after a teeth-whitening treatment, especially in the first few days, are to follow what is referred to as a ‘white diet,’ which includes eating non-staining foods. These foods include:
- Dairy Products
Great foods for dental health include milk, plain yogurt, and especially white cheeses, as they contain calcium, which helps protect the teeth.
- White Meats
Depending on the meat selection, chicken or turkey breast has relatively low coloration with only mild pigmentation and no worries of staining like with red meat.
- Eggs
Whisked eggs are whitish in colour and very healthy; they are tranquil after the procedure.
- Starches
However, only white rice, pasta, and bread may be taken, but they should be plain without any dark sauces or seasonings.
- Potatoes and Bananas
Such foods as potatoes, bananas, and cauliflower are safe since they cannot darken the necks of teeth.
Avoiding Certain Foods and Drinks After Teeth Whitening
To preserve your results, it’s crucial to avoid certain foods and drinks, particularly in the first 48 hours after treatment. Here are the main culprits:
- Coffee and Tea
Both coffee and tea, especially darker varieties, can easily stain your teeth. If you need a caffeine fix, try white tea or herbal teas that don’t have pigments.
- Red Wine
It is well known that red wine stains teeth. If you want to enjoy wine, opt for white wine instead, but it’s still best to avoid alcohol right after whitening.
- Tomato-Based Products
Foods like tomato sauce, ketchup, and salsa contain rich pigments and are highly acidic, making them likely to cause stains.
- Dark Berries
Berries like blueberries, blackberries, and cherries are healthy, but their dark juices can stain your teeth.
- Sodas and Sugary Drinks
Colas, dark-coloured sodas, and energy drinks are not only acidic but also full of colouring agents that can discolour your teeth.
What to Eat and Drink to Maintain White Teeth
Once you’ve passed the critical post-whitening phase, it’s essential to focus on foods that help maintain your white teeth. Here are some excellent choices if you’re wondering what to eat and drink to keep teeth white:
- Crunchy Vegetables and Fruits: Foods like apples, carrots, and celery naturally help clean your teeth. Their fibrous textures act like a natural toothbrush, scrubbing away particles and plaque.
- Water: Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse your mouth and wash away potential staining agents after meals.
- Dairy Products: Cheese, yogurt, and milk contain calcium and phosphates that help to strengthen enamel, protecting your teeth from future staining.
- Green Tea (in moderation): While darker teas can stain teeth, green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce plaque buildup, indirectly keeping your teeth cleaner and brighter.
How to Naturally Whiten Teeth with Diet
If you’re looking for ways to maintain or even boost your whitening results without professional treatments, consider how to naturally whiten teeth with diet. Some foods and habits can help keep your teeth bright and healthy:
- Strawberries: Malic acid, which is present in these, can aid in teeth whitening. Rubbing a strawberry on your teeth (in moderation) is a popular natural method to brighten your smile.
- Pineapple: This fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme that can help remove stains from the surface of your teeth.
- Cheese and Other Dairy Products: The calcium in cheese helps strengthen your teeth, and the chewing action required to eat it helps produce saliva, which naturally cleanses the mouth.
- High-Fiber Foods: Vegetables like spinach, lettuce, and kale are high in fiber and help generate saliva, keeping your mouth naturally clean and reducing the chances of staining.
Long-Term Diet Adjustments for a Bright Smile
Maintaining your teeth’s whiteness goes beyond the immediate post-whitening diet. Long-term adjustments can help ensure your smile stays bright:
- Drink Through a Straw: If you must drink staining beverages like coffee or soda, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Rinse After Eating: Rinsing your mouth with water after meals can help remove any leftover food particles that might stain your teeth.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can yellow teeth over time, so cutting down or quitting can significantly improve the appearance of your smile.
If you’re considering a professional teeth whitening service, it’s worth exploring options for teeth whitening near you. Maintaining your whitening results is largely about lifestyle, and knowing how to care for your teeth after treatment is essential.
Trust Your Smile to the professionals at Aspen Dental Clinic
For expert advice on teeth whitening and oral care, visit Aspen Dental Clinic. Our experienced dentist in Rocky Mountain House offers top-quality teeth whitening treatments that deliver exceptional results. With our personalized approach and professional care, we’re here to help you achieve and maintain the smile you’ve always wanted.
Want a brighter smile? Call or email us to book your appointment at Aspen Dental Clinic today!
