Teeth whitening is a popular and simple dental procedure that can drastically decrease visible tooth staining. When you have your teeth whitened professionally by a trained dentist, it is a safe and effective way to see great results. Even though teeth whitening is fairly straightforward, it’s common to have some questions about this treatment option. People often wonder if they have any dietary restrictions after teeth whitening.
What Should I Eat After Teeth Whitening?
For the first 48 hours after a professional teeth whitening procedure, you should avoid consuming anything acidic, as well as pigmented foods and beverages. You only want to eat or drink things that won’t discolor your teeth. As such, this is often known as the “White Diet,” which is a short-term diet focusing on only white and light-colored foods and drinks.
These are mainly white-colored foods that have low acidity and don’t contain the chemicals and pigments that often result in staining. Here are some of the foods that are an excellent option after having your teeth whitened:
- Fish, chicken, or tofu with white sauces only
- Rice, bread, or pasta without molasses or food coloring
- White cheese and yogurt without artificial colors and added sugars
- Light-colored fresh fruits and vegetables such as pears, bananas, apples, cauliflower and potatoes
- Water should always be the first beverage choice after teeth whitening
If the white diet isn’t particularly appealing to you, you should be careful to avoid the following foods and beverages in general:
- Wine
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soft Drinks
- Dark fruits
- Candy
- Chocolate
Additional Steps to Protect Your Teeth After Whitening
In addition to sticking to a white diet after having your teeth professionally whitened, you can also do the following to help protect your teeth and help extend their whiteness. For example, you should:
- Quit smoking: Nicotine in any form can cause yellowing of the enamel that can be difficult to remove.
- Have regular dental exams and cleanings: Routine checkups and dental cleanings must be paired with whitening procedures to keep your smile healthy and looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, teeth whitening is safe. It’s a common myth that teeth whitening isn’t safe. In fact, when performed by a trained professional, teeth whitening is very safe. However, it’s crucial to understand that overdoing it can harm your teeth. This is because tooth enamel is temporarily stripped during the whitening process and, if overdone, may damage your teeth long-term.
How Often Can I Get My Teeth Whitened?
Unfortunately, professional teeth whitening should only be done in moderation. Most dentists recommend the procedure be done only once every five to six months, depending on your specific situation and dental health. Too frequent whitening can cause long-lasting sensitivity and unhealthy teeth.
Interested in Professional Teeth Whitening? Contact Howard Levitt DDS Today
At Howard Levitt, DDS, we are proud to offer professional teeth whitening as a part of our services that help our patients look and feel their best. To learn more about teeth whitening options, contact us at 203-775-2225 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.