Teeth whitening solutions are popular nowadays since they can help you obtain a brighter smile and increase your overall confidence. Thanks to take-home tray methods and expert whitening at the dentist’s office, you can even get the results you want in less time. However, once you have completed these treatments, there are several things you will need to do to keep those sparkling teeth, especially during the days that follow the treatment. Following professional teeth whitening, eating carefully for the first few days will help you keep your new, brighter smile longer. To learn more, talk to a cosmetic dentist in Sterling Heights today. 

Food and beverages to avoid after teeth whitening 

The whitening technique makes teeth more porous and briefly alters the underlying dentin layer. As a result, new discolorations and stains can occur when pigments and dyes in particular foods and beverages touch those sensitive teeth. To avoid this, avoid the meals and drinks listed below for at least the first 48 hours after your treatment. 

  • Coffee and tea 

Tannins are a chemical found in both tea and coffee. When tannins accumulate, they can significantly discolor teeth. Because your teeth become more porous after professional whitening, tannins can discolor them more quickly.

Avoid these beverages for a few days, but drink them using a straw to limit direct contact with your teeth. After that, quickly rinse your mouth. 

  • White and red wines 

Wines might be bad for your teeth’s color and enamel. Because of its high acidity and dark color, red wine, in particular, can cause staining or erosion. White wine, despite being lighter, can also hurt your newly whitened teeth by further eroding the enamel. 

  • Dark fruits and vegetables 

Dark vegetables and fruits are high in pigments, which can discolor your teeth. As a result, avoid foods like blueberries, blackberries, cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, grapes, purple cabbage, carrots, beets, and dark, leafy greens like spinach following teeth whitening treatment. 

  • Sugary treats 

Refined sweets in goodies such as cakes, cookies, candies, chocolate, or ice cream can lead to increased cavities, tooth decay, discoloration, and enamel erosion, mainly if your teeth are sensitive after whitening. 

  • Fizzy soft drinks 

You should avoid drinking fizzy, carbonated drinks for at least 48 hours after whitening since they contain significant amounts of sugar, color additives, and acidity, which can take off tooth enamel and produce severe surface staining. 

If you wish to learn more about teeth whitening treatments, talk to an experienced dentist today.