Professional teeth whitening delivers beautiful results that can boost a person’s confidence and improve their chances of making a good first impression. Considered a wise investment for anyone interested in eliminating stains and discoloration, the results can last months with proper care. However, if certain foods and beverages become a normal part of one’s diet, touch-ups may be needed much sooner. Which ones should be avoided, and which ones can help extend the lifespan of brighter teeth?
Post-Whitening Foods to Avoid
Patients who complete professional teeth whitening treatment want results to last. However, it is easy to sabotage one’s investment if the following foods and beverages are consumed regularly:
- Coffee: This acidic beverage breaks down tooth enamel, and the dark-colored pigments can begin to stain teeth over time.
- Red Wine: Similar to coffee, the acidity and sugar can attack enamel and increase the risk of cavities. Its tannins can also increase the likelihood of discoloration.
- Soda: Acidity, sugar, and dark color are all found in various soda brands, making virtually all of them a problem after whitening one’s teeth.
- Blueberries: Although they are full of beneficial antioxidants, their color and acidity can be problematic for whiter, brighter teeth. Others include beets, blackberries, pomegranates, and cherries.
- Those with natural and artificial dyes: Candy, sports drinks, popsicles, and others contain natural or artificial dyes that can easily discolor white teeth.
Smile-Approved Foods to Extend Results
Immediately following whitening treatment, patients should be extra careful about what they eat or drink. Over time, having a glass of red wine once in a while may not be as harmful as long as proper measures are taken to keep teeth clean and healthy.
If maintaining results for longer is the ultimate goal, however, the following foods and beverages can help keep smiles looking their best:
- White rice
- Yogurt
- Milk
- Rice pudding
- Bananas
- Coconut
- Scrambled eggs
- Sushi
Many of these foods are rich in calcium, which is ideal for strong bones (tooth enamel). Also, their color is not a threat to teeth because most are white or a lighter shade.
But adopting a healthy, smile-approved diet is not the only way to extend results. Regular dental checkups and cleanings, at-home oral hygiene, and giving up unhealthy habits, such as smoking, are equally essential.
Teeth whitening can improve smiles, but if they are to be enjoyed in the years ahead, it’s best to make appropriate changes now.
About the Author
Dr. Robin Schumacher attended the University of Kentucky and the University of Michigan for his dental studies. After earning his degree, he became a nationally board-certified prosthodontist. In addition to repairing and rebuilding smiles, he and his team also enhance them with cosmetic dental solutions, including professional teeth whitening. If you are unhappy with your stained teeth, visit our website or call (781) 334–3400 to schedule an appointment to discuss your options.