Once you have undergone professional teeth whitening and achieved that bright, sparkly smile you wished for, you can soon show it off! However, when it comes to eating after teeth whitening, there are certain dietary restrictions that you’ll have to follow to maintain the results. If you are wondering how long you should wait before eating and which foods to eat and avoid after the procedure, we will answer your questions in this blog.
When Can You Start Eating Normally After Teeth Whitening?
The wait period for resuming your normal diet after teeth whitening typically depends on the type of whitening method used. If you have received professional teeth whitening, here’s what you can expect:
Soon After Treatment
For the first one to two hours after the treatment, it’s best to avoid all types of foods and drinks except water. At this stage, your teeth are most vulnerable to staining, so you need to be more mindful of your diet.
First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours after teeth whitening are the most critical. During this period, you should stick to a white diet that includes non-staining foods and clear beverages. This gives your teeth the time to recover and reduces the risk of discoloration.
24 to 48 Hours
Most dentists suggest following dietary restrictions for 48 hours. You can slowly reintroduce more foods, but it is still better to avoid acidic and staining products.
After 48 Hours
You can return to your normal diet after this period. However, your dentist may recommend limiting the intake of certain foods and drinks to maintain your bright smile in the long run.
What Foods are Safe to Eat After Teeth Whitening?
For the initial 48 hours, you need to be extra cautious about your diet. Some safe options that you can enjoy during this period include:
- Whole grains: Rice, white bread, pasta (without sauces), wheat, and barley.
- Lean proteins: Chicken, skinless turkey, and white fish.
- Dairy products: Skim milk, white cheese, yogurt, and egg whites.
- Vegetables: Cauliflower, white potatoes, and other light-colored vegetables.
- Non-staining beverages: Plain water, clear broth, and coconut water.
These foods and drinks do not cause staining, so you can safely consume them in the initial period and afterward.
Foods and Beverages to Avoid After Teeth Whitening
To maintain the cosmetic results of your treatment, it is recommended to avoid certain foods and drinks, particularly in the first few days. They include:
- Staining and acidic beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, colas, and sparkling drinks.
- Pigmented foods: Berries, beetroots, tomatoes, red peppers, and carrots.
- Acidic fruits: Lemons, oranges, strawberries, and limes.
- Dark sauces: Soy sauce, ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, and tomato-based sauces.
- Foods with dark/artificial coloring: brightly colored candies, dyed frosting, and other goods that contain dark/artificial coloring.
Final Words
So if you are wondering how long you have to wait before you start eating normally after teeth whitening, the recommended time is 48 hours. During this period, you need to be more mindful of your diet and follow your dentist’s instructions to maintain the best results.
If you have any more dental queries or concerns, consult our qualified professionals at Anh B. Dao, DDS & Associates today. Call us at (281) 992-7000 to schedule a consultation.