Teeth whitening in Charlottesville is an excellent way to turn back the clock and enjoy a brighter, more beautiful smile. Getting the most benefit from this popular cosmetic treatment means watching what you put in your body during the first 48 hours afterward. It’s especially important to avoid dark beverages such as coffee and tea, pigmented foods such as chocolate and soy sauce, and all types of tobacco.
What to Avoid after Teeth Whitening
it’s normal for your teeth to be a little more sensitive than usual during the first 48 hours after whitening. That’s because the medications used during the treatment remain active for several hour. Make a special point of avoiding the following substances for the first couple of days:
- Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, fruit juices, and flavored drink mixes.
- All types of alcohol. This includes clear drinks such as whiskey or vodka, as these can irritate freshly whitened teeth.
- Chocolate.
- Ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, and other condiments.
- All types of tobacco and vaping products. Not only do they discolor teeth, they can have devastating effects on your entire body. Ask your dentist about new medications that can help you to kick the habit.
- Colored toothpaste or mouthwash; ex. products with red, green, or blue dyes.
- Red meat.
- Desserts.
- Fruits other than bananas.
- Processed foods such as baloney and salami.
- Illicit drugs of all kinds.
If in doubt, use the “white shirt test:” avoid anything that you would be uncomfortable eating or drinking while wearing a clean white shirt. Ask your cosmetic dentist in Charlottesville if you should take nutritional supplements such as vitamins during the first 48 hours, as some of these products contain colorants. Make sure to follow prescribed dosing schedules for all of your medications.
Foods That Are Okay to Eat after Teeth Whitening
The following foods are okay to enjoy in moderation during the first 48 hours after teeth whitening:
- Water, including sparkling water and fluoridated water from the tap.
- Egg whites (not yokes).
- Skim or low-fat milk.
- Bananas.
- White onions.
- Cauliflower.
- Boneless, skinless chicken or turkey breast.
- White fish.
- White bread with the crusts cut off.
- Peeled white potatoes.
- Plain white yogurt with no added fruit or sugars.
Added Tips for Making the Most of Teeth Whitening
Here are some extra tips for getting the most benefit from teeth whitening:
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush and nonabrasive brand of toothpaste. Your dentist can recommend appropriate products.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold beverages, as these can cause discomfort to sensitive teeth.
- Stay away from desserts and other sweetened foods.
After the first 48 hours, you can resume a normal, healthy diet. To keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best, you should limit consumption of sugars and simple starches. You should also enjoy a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, limit your intake of saturated fat, and consume alcohol only in moderation (if at all).
Teeth whitening is a gentle, effective way to restore a smile that has seen its better days. Use the tips in this post to keep your pearly whites looking their best long after your appointment is over.
About the Author
Dr. Hal M. Lippard earned his DDS degree from the University of Tennessee at Memphis before going on to serve our country as a military dentist for four years. You can reach his office online or by calling (434) 293-9311.