Even though in-office teeth whitening treatments can be completed in a single visit (and in just one hour), it still requires an investment of your time and money. So, you naturally want the results to last as long as possible. While your oral hygiene routine will naturally play a role, your diet will too. That’s why it’s important to fill your plate with foods that are both nutrient-dense and light in color. To learn a few examples (as well as what to avoid), keep reading!
7 Foods That Will Help Prevent Stains
Immediately following your teeth whitening treatment, your cosmetic dentist may recommend sticking to a “white food diet.” As the name suggests, the idea is to stick to white and light-colored foods. However, it’s important to also prioritize a well-balanced and nutrient-dense diet, which is why it’s a good idea to eat the following during this time:
- Apples
- Celery
- Carrots
- Oatmeal
- Bananas
- Yogurt
- Cheese
As for beverages, water is always ideal because it’s clear, sugar-free, and helps rinse away food particles from your mouth. Milk (and milk alternatives) are also a good choice because they are high in calcium and protein while also being light in color.
A Few Foods to Avoid After Teeth Whitening Treatment
Of course, being aware of the foods that can quickly cause stains to resurface is also important. The general rule-of-thumb is to steer clear of things that are highly pigmented, like blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Soy sauce, BBQ sauce, and marinara sauce are also not recommended. In short, if it can stain your shirt, it can stain your teeth, so avoid them immediately following your teeth whitening treatment if you can.
5 Additional Ways to Keep Your Teeth White
As previously mentioned, prioritizing your oral hygiene regimen is also crucial. Fortunately, many of the best practices your dentist will recommend should already be a part of your routine, including:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to brush twice a day
- Flossing and rinsing with mouthwash each evening
- Visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning
- Getting touch-up treatments as needed
- Avoiding unhealthy dental habits that can stain your teeth, like smoking
While the results of your teeth whitening treatment can last for several months, it’s important to do your part to help prevent stains from resurfacing. Luckily, small changes like sticking to light-colored foods and beverages can help significantly!
About the Practice
Our team at Super Dental of Fitchburg is here to help you achieve a smile that is as healthy as it is beautiful. That’s why we offer cosmetic dental treatments, including in-office and take-home teeth whitening solutions. Plus, we offer evening and weekend hours too, which makes achieving the smile of your dreams more convenient than ever before. If you want to learn more about the teeth whitening process and how to prolong the results, or you simply want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (978) 342-8500.