Protecting Your Smile After Teeth Whitening
You should always ask your dentist or dental hygienist for personalized post-treatment care recommendations, but here are some common foods you should avoid after teeth whitening:
Dark-Coloured Beverages
Dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola are notorious for staining teeth. After teeth whitening, it is ideal to steer clear of these drinks, as they can undo the results and cause discoloration. If you cannot resist a cup of coffee or tea, consider using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth or rinse your mouth with water immediately after consumption.
Acidic Foods
Highly acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dressings can erode the tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to staining. While these foods offer numerous health benefits, it's wise to consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize the acid. You can also wait for at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods before brushing your teeth to avoid damaging the softened enamel.
Pigmented Sauces and Condiments
Certain sauces and condiments like soy sauce, ketchup, and balsamic vinegar can contain intense pigments that have the potential to stain your teeth. To maintain your newly whitened smile, exercise caution when using these condiments, or opt for lighter alternatives. Brushing your teeth before consuming these condiments can create a protective barrier and reduce the risk of staining.
Berries and Pomegranates
While berries and pomegranates are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, their vibrant colours can leave stains on teeth. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and pomegranates contain pigments that can adhere to the tooth enamel. If you choose to consume these delicious fruits, consider enjoying them as part of a meal rather than snacking on them alone. Alternatively, you can rinse your mouth with water afterward or brush your teeth gently.
Dark Chocolate and Colored Candy
Indulging in dark chocolate and colourful candies can be tempting, but these treats often contain dyes that can stain your teeth. Opt for white chocolate or sugar-free options if you're craving a sweet treat. If you do consume dark chocolate or coloured candy, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or brush your teeth afterward to minimize the risk of staining.
For more tips to protect your teeth after treatment,
read Dos and Don’ts After Professional Teeth Whitening.
Achieve A White, Brighter Smile At Marlborough Dental
After investing in a teeth whitening treatment, it's important to be mindful of the foods you consume to protect your gleaming smile. Avoiding dark-coloured beverages, acidic foods, pigmented sauces, berries, dark chocolate, and coloured candy can help maintain your white smile. However, moderation and good oral hygiene practices are key. Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for dental exams and professional teeth cleanings. By adopting these habits and being mindful of your food choices, you can enjoy the benefits of your teeth whitening treatment for a long time to come.
If you want a brighter, whiter smile, professional teeth whitening can give you the result you desire. At Marlborough Dental Centre in NE Calgary, our team of dental professionals will discuss with you how white you would like your teeth and we will work with you to create a smile you can feel confident about. To schedule a professional teeth whitening session, call Marlborough Dental Centre at 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the online contact form. Our staff can answer any questions you may have before or after your teeth whitening and we can help you learn more about how to prolong your results as well as schedule any touch-ups later on.
FAQ
Q: Is tooth whitening bad for your teeth?
A: No, having your teeth professionally whitened does not damage the enamel.
Q: Can teeth whitening remove all tooth stains?
A: No, teeth whitening can only remove surface-level staining, not staining in the dentin of the teeth. To learn more about different stains, read Which Stains Teeth Whitening Can Remove And Those It Can’t. If you want whiter teeth but have deep staining that can’t be removed with teeth whitening, consider getting veneers. Read Teeth Whitening Or Veneers: Which One Will Get You The Smile You Want to learn more about this option.
Q: Can I whiten my teeth at home?
A: While there are teeth whitening kits available for at-home use, these products are not as effective and can lead to disappointing results. Some products can also cause gum irritation and other damage. To learn more about at-home teeth whitening and why in-office teeth whitening performed by a dentist is the superior option, read The Risks Of At-Home Teeth Whitening.
