Teeth whitening is a remarkable cosmetic dental treatment that can lift stubborn stains and leave the smile up to eight shades whiter. While this procedure is noninvasive and painless without anesthesia, your teeth will need some time to recover afterward. Here’s a brief guide to how long your teeth will need to replenish the minerals in their enamel as well as a few foods to avoid during this period.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Many dentists offer teeth whitening treatments designed to address mild to severe cases of dental discoloration. Unlike store-bought whitening products, these treatments use customized dental trays and concentrated whitening agents to deliver astounding results in brief timeframes and with maximum safety. This procedure can take the form of an in-office session with your dentist that takes about an hour or a take-home kit that takes about two weeks.
How Can I Take Care of My Teeth After Whitening?
You may experience some dental sensitivity for several days after your whitening treatment. While this discomfort should be mild and temporary, you can reduce it by avoiding hot, cold, acidic, and sweet foods and beverages and using over-the-counter pain relievers and/or desensitizing toothpaste. However, the most important part of keeping your teeth healthy after whitening is practicing excellent oral hygiene every day.
What Foods Should I Avoid After Teeth Whitening?
Your teeth will be especially susceptible to developing new stains for several days after your teeth whitening treatment, so it’s important to avoid foods and beverages that can cause new stains to form. These include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Cola
- Berries
- Dark sauces
- Colorful candies
If you enjoy beverages that can cause stains, it’s best to drink them through straws to reduce how much liquid makes contact with your teeth. It’s also best to drink a tall glass of water alongside these drinks to help wash them away from your enamel.
Don’t let the wrong eating decisions lead to frustrating dental stains. By adhering to your dentist’s aftercare guidelines and practicing excellent oral hygiene after teeth whitening, you can ensure that your teeth stay shiny and bright for up to three years.
About the Author
Dr. Colin Holman offers the finest oral health services in Oklahoma City. He earned his dental degree at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and serves as a member of the American Dental Association, the Oklahoma Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office provides general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening. To book your teeth whitening consultation, contact the office online or dial (405) 735-6600.
