Professional teeth whitening is one of the quickest ways to enhance your smile. However, maintaining that fresh, white glow doesnt stop at the dentists office. What you eat and drink after your whitening session has a significant impact on how long your results will last.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we want our patients to enjoy their brighter smiles for as long as possible. This guide shares essential post-whitening diet guidelines to help you preserve your whitening results and avoid staining.
Why Diet Matters After Teeth Whitening
After whitening, teeth are slightly more porous and susceptible to staining.
The enamel needs 24 to 48 hours to remineralize and seal.
Certain foods and drinks can easily penetrate the enamel and cause discoloration during this time.
The White Diet What You Should Eat
?? Safe Foods After Whitening:
Plain yogurt
Mashed potatoes
Rice
Pasta (white sauces)
Chicken, turkey, or fish (grilled or steamed)
Eggs
Cauliflower, peeled apples, bananas
?? Safe Drinks:
Water
Milk
Coconut water
These foods are light in color and unlikely to stain your teeth during the vulnerable post-whitening period.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
? Avoid for at Least 48 Hours:
Coffee and tea
Red wine
Cola and dark sodas
Tomato-based sauces
Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
Berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries)
Beets
Curries
Chocolate
Colored sports drinks and juices (grape, cranberry, pomegranate)
Habits That Impact Whitening Longevity
Smoking or vaping: Causes significant staining and reduces whitening lifespan.
Poor oral hygiene: Plaque attracts stains faster.
Frequent consumption of staining foods: Shortens whitening results.
Long-Term Diet Tips for Maintaining Whitening
Use a straw for drinks like iced coffee, tea, or soda (after the initial 48 hours).
Rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or drinks.
Brush after meals when possible, but wait 30 minutes after acidic foods to avoid enamel wear.
Incorporate crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and celery after the first 48 hoursthey naturally help clean teeth.
Oral Care Products to Support Whitening
Use whitening toothpaste approved by your dentist to help maintain brightness.
Consider at-home whitening trays or touch-up kits provided by McLevin Dental.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash to maintain freshness without drying your mouth.
Signs Its Time for a Touch-Up
Noticeable yellowing or dullness after 612 months.
Stains from coffee, wine, or smoking become harder to remove with brushing alone.
Diminished brightness compared to post-treatment photos.
Schedule a whitening touch-up at McLevin Dental to refresh your smile.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
If you experience sensitivity lasting more than 35 days post-whitening.
For advice on at-home maintenance products.
To book professional touch-up treatments.
Trust McLevin Dental for Long-Lasting Whitening Results
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were committed to helping you maintain a beautiful, bright smile long after your whitening treatment. Following these simple diet guidelines can extend the life of your results and keep your teeth looking stunning.
For questions about teeth whitening, aftercare, or touch-ups, contact our friendly team today. Were here to help you smile with confidence.