A professional teeth whitening kit will have your smile looking white and bright in a matter of weeks. If you’re not careful, though, your teeth could quickly become re-stained. For a few days after your treatment, your pearly whites are actually more vulnerable to strong pigments than usual! To help your glowing cosmetic results last longer, you’ll want to avoid certain foods and drinks. Keep reading to learn more.
Acidic Treats
Acidic treats like lemons, limes, tomatoes, pickles, and processed meats can weaken your enamel, especially when consumed shortly after a teeth whitening treatment. While they might not stain your smile directly, a weakened enamel layer will make it easier for pigments to settle into your teeth.
Dark Beverages and Sauces
This can include red wine, coffee, tea, tomato sauce, soy sauce, mustard, and other similar semi-liquids. As a general rule of thumb, if it can stain your clothes, it will probably stain your newly whitened teeth. Dark-colored substances in particular usually have stronger color pigments that are harder to wash out.
Staining Fruits and Vegetables
It’s true – even some fruits and vegetables can re-tarnish your smile! Berries are a common offender, as their vibrantly-colored juices are just as tough as dark beverages and sauces. There are some healthy munchies you might not have guessed as being notorious stain-causers, though. Purple cabbage, carrots, beets, and spinach are just a few examples.
Foods with Dyes
Perhaps unsurprisingly, foods that contain dyes specifically meant to stain them a different color are a hazard for recently whitened teeth. Popsicles, soda pop, most candy, sports drinks, and pretty much anything with the “red velvet” label should be avoided. In fact, you may want to carefully read the product label before you buy. More foods and drinks are dyed than you might think!
Getting a teeth whitening treatment near you will be totally worth it, and ultimately, it will be easier to keep your smile clean (as long as you brush twice per day and floss once daily!). Avoiding these treats for a few days after your treatment will simply help you enjoy your results for that much longer. When your dentist gives you “the ok,” you can go back to eating these foods and drinks in moderation.
About the Author
Before opening up her own practice, Dr. Erin Peters worked in a cosmetic dental office for 12 years. Between this and her continuing education efforts, she has plenty of experience with treatments that enhance patients’ smiles like teeth whitening. If you’re interested in removing dental stains from your grin or have questions about caring for your treatment results, call Dr. Peters’ office at 201-641-9119.