Beverages And Foods To Avoid After Having Your Teeth Whitened

If your smile is dull because of darkening and staining, you may be a candidate for a teeth whitening procedure at Stony Brook Family Dentistry. This is one of the more cost-effective and popular cosmetic dentistry procedures available. However, there are certain things to be aware of, especially the drinks and foods that you consume after undergoing the procedure. Here is a list of precautions to consider.

Acidic Foods

Your teeth may be sensitive to acid based beverages and foods after having your teeth whitened. The acidity of your saliva can damage those areas of your teeth that may already be somewhat weakened by the whitening chemicals that are used. Beverages and foods that you should avoid include grapefruit, lemons, limes, oranges, pickles, pineapple, soft drinks, and vinegar.

Cold Beverages And Foods

After a whitening session, you may find that your teeth are more sensitive than normal for up to 36 hours. Certain cold beverages and foods such as frozen yogurt, ice cream, ice water, and other frozen desserts should be avoided during this time in order to prevent any pain or discomfort from occurring. Do not eat foods directly out of your fridge or freezer.

Dark-Colored Beverages

Clear and white beverages such as water and milk are permissible to drink after having your teeth whitened. However, dark-colored beverages can stain your newly whitened smile. It is important to avoid drinking coffee, dark-colored soft drinks, red wines, and teas after you have had your teeth whitened. Additionally, certain colored juices such as cranberry, grape, orange, and tomato juices can also cause staining in some cases.

Staining Foods

There are a number of different foods that can stain your bright, new smile after having your teeth whitened. We recommend that you avoid foods such as beets, blueberries, chocolate (especially dark), dark marinades, dark soups, soy sauce, stews, and tomato sauces. By avoiding these foods, it will make the teeth whitening procedure more effective over time.

Our teeth whitening procedures have benefited many patients in Suffolk County, Long Island. If you have additional questions or would like more information, please contact Stony Brook Family Dentistry today.