Eating After Teeth Whitening: When Can You Resume Normal Foods?

Prioritising patients’ smile goals for over 70 years, Collins Dental Image offers whitening solutions of the highest calibre to help you reveal a stunning, engaging smile. Let’s take a closer look at this popular cosmetic procedure that can make your pearly whites truly shine.

Understanding Teeth Whitening

Advanced whitening agents are used to brighten your smile. The whitening agents target and break down stains on the enamel. The choice between treatments often depends on your lifestyle, budget and the degree of whitening desired.

The in-office treatment can be finished in just one hour, perfect for those with upcoming events. Conversely, the at-home whitening process is conducted nightly over a span of up to two weeks for a more gradual improvement which is great for people who have very sensitive teeth. Our highly skilled dentists and oral health therapists will assist you in selecting the optimal method tailored to your tooth shade and desired results, ensuring a professional, secure and comfortable experience.

Post-treatment Care

After you’ve brightened your smile, dietary considerations play a crucial role in maintaining those pearly whites. Many wonder when it’s safe to return to their normal diet after whitening – let’s explore this.

Immediate Post-Whitening Guidelines

Immediately after your session, it’s crucial to follow a “white diet” -think chicken, rice and white fish for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid any dark-coloured foods or beverages, such as red wine, coffee and berries, which can re-stain your teeth. We also recommend sticking to water and avoiding acidic drinks like citrus juices, which can irritate newly whitened teeth.

Resuming Normal Eating Habits

So, when can you resume normal eating? Typically, you can start to reintroduce other foods as early as the day after treatment once any initial sensitivity has subsided. However, we advise moderation with highly pigmented foods and drinks to maintain your new smile.

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Recovery time can vary based on several factors:

• The level of sensitivity you experience post-whitening
• The specific type of treatment you received and its intensity
• Your overall oral health and tooth sensitivity

Tips for Maintaining Whitening Results

To keep your teeth shining bright, maintain scrupulous oral hygiene practices. Regular brushing and flossing are a must, and consider using a straw for coloured beverages to reduce direct contact with your teeth. Furthermore, we recommend scheduling periodic cleanings and touch-up treatments to sustain those results.

Eating normally after teeth whitening doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the guidelines provided and engaging in good oral hygiene practices, you can enjoy your results for a long time. Remember, each whitening treatment is unique, so consult your dentist for advice tailored to your situation.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.