So, you just had your teeth professionally whitened, and your smile has never looked better. Should you go back to drinking coffee and eating blueberries right away? Unfortunately, it takes a little effort to keep your smile sparkling. Since your teeth are more porous right after whitening, what you eat can either help maintain their brightness or cause new stains. Continue reading to see what you should eat to prolong your radiant results.
Crispy Fruits and Veggies
Crisp, fiber-rich fruits and veggies act like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing away surface stains and promoting saliva production. Your spit helps neutralize acids and wash away leftover food particles, keeping your teeth cleaner, longer! Here are some of your best options:
- Apples
- Celery
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
Dairy Products
Dairy is packed with calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen enamel and can help keep up your teeth’s newly brightened appearance. Plus, cheese and yogurt contain casein, a protein that helps prevent staining by coating and protecting enamel. If you’re ready to indulge in some dairy, consider:
- Cheese (especially hard cheeses like cheddar)
- Plain yogurt
- Milk
Lean Proteins
Lean meats, fish, and eggs provide essential minerals like phosphorus and magnesium that support strong enamel. They also don’t normally have deep pigments that can stain your pearly whites, making them a safe choice after your treatment. Some of the best meats for preserving your results include:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Fish
- Eggs
White and Clear Foods
After whitening, avoiding dark-colored or highly pigmented snacks is key. Lighter-colored foods are your safest bet since they won’t introduce new stains. A good rule to follow is if it can stain a white shirt—it can stain your teeth! Here are some great examples of colorless edibles:
- Rice
- Cauliflower
- Pasta (without red sauce)
- Potatoes
Water
While not exactly “food,” water is one of the best ways to maintain a bright smile. It helps rinse away food particles, reduces acidity in your mouth, and keeps your body hydrated. Drinking water after meals can prevent staining and protect your enamel.
As you can see, choosing the right menu items after whitening can help protect your results and keep your teeth looking fresh. Pair these small initial dietary changes with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, and your bright smile will last for months—if not years!
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Camenzuli is a passionate dentist who loves helping his patients achieve their best and brightest smiles. He earned his dental degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry before moving into continuing education. Today he’s a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by only 6% of practitioners in North America. Call (504) 895-3400 to schedule a teeth whitening