After getting a professional teeth whitening procedure, you want to maintain your bright white smile for as long as possible. However, there are many foods and drinks to avoid and other steps you can take to prevent staining. Here are the top tips to follow. 

How to Keep Teeth Bright After Whitening

1. Avoid Colored and Acidic Food and Drinks

After teeth whitening, avoid foods and drinks that are dyed. The worst offenders are red wine, coffee, tea, juice, and soda. They can also cause discoloration and staining. Stick to clear fluids as much as possible, but if you want to drink one of these items, use a straw. Similarly, try to consume foods that are light in color. Choose unseasoned chicken or fish and plain starches like pasta and rice for the first week or so after the procedure. 

The whitening process weakens the tooth enamel, so you should also avoid eating acidic foods like pickles, lemons, and limes.

2. Protect Against Sensitivity

The teeth whitening process can make teeth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Avoid meals that are either too hot or too cold to prevent discomfort. 

When brushing freshly whitened teeth, use a dentist-recommended toothpaste or gel explicitly made for tooth sensitivity to dull the uncomfortable sensation. While regular brushing is important, it is best to do so gently after the treatment to prevent stripping the whitening treatment. 

3. Eat Crunchy Foods and Dairy

Eating crunchy foods and dairy products for the first two days can help maintain the brightness of teeth after a teeth whitening treatment. 

Consuming fruits and vegetables, like apples, celery and green beans, enhances the production and flow of saliva that helps clean the teeth. As previously mentioned, avoid darkly colored fruits, or rinse your mouth after eating them to prevent stains. Eat dairy products high in calcium to complement the nutrients and minerals in fruits and vegetables to keep your teeth healthy and defend against decay.

If you want to schedule a teeth whitening session, turn to the dentists at Waterstone Family Denistry. They have been serving patients throughout Fuquay Varina, NC, for more than 15 years. These dental professionals remain on the cutting edge of innovative treatments. While they emphasize the importance of preventative care to patients, they also offer restorative treatments like implants, crowns, and bridges. In the event of an urgent dental issue, they offer emergency care. Call (919) 557-5250 to schedule an appointment with these caring dentists today. You can also visit the website for more information.