6 Foods and Beverages You Should Avoid After a Teeth Whitening

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Many people believe that the teeth whitening procedure ends at the dentist’s office. But this is a common misconception that can nullify the effect of teeth whitening, so the teeth whitening effect fades after a few months. 

To make the effects of the teeth whitening procedure last longer, it is important to follow some simple tips. First and foremost, it is important to adjust your eating habits. Many foods and beverages have the potential to quickly reverse the teeth whitening effect. 

Avoid the following 6 foods and beverages to prolong the effect of the teeth whitening procedure and ensure your dental health. You may also ask your dental care specialist about additional recommendations to keep your teeth white as long as possible. 

1. Coffee

Life wouldn't be the same without your morning coffee, afternoon pick-me-up, or evening espresso, but after a whitening treatment, you should avoid coffee. Because coffee is an acidic beverage, it is particularly corrosive to your dental enamel. The dark color of the coffee doesn't help. With each sip, you are darkening your teeth and making them browner. 

To replace the coffee ritual, try sipping clear herbal tea after a teeth whitening procedure. It's a good idea to avoid caffeine every now and then, and your teeth will remain white for longer.

2. Red wine

The combination of ingredients in red wine makes it ideal for staining teeth. Because red wine has high acidity, it makes the teeth enamel porous, soft, and more vulnerable to hues. The pigment anthocyanin that is responsible for the wine's crimson hue and tannin, a polyphenol that promotes the bonding of hues to your teeth can stain your teeth and nullify the effect of teeth whitening procedure. 

After teeth whitening, it is recommended to avoid red wine or substitute it with white wine. Although white wine contains acids, it lacks dark staining elements.

3. Blueberries

After the tooth whitening procedure, it is recommended to avoid dark-colored berries like blueberries. Blueberries are dark in color and contain acids that make tooth enamel more vulnerable to staining. It is recommended to avoid eating blueberries during the first few weeks after the procedure. Then you can eat blueberries, but remember to rinse your mouth with tap water afterward. The liquid will aid in the removal of stains from your teeth.

4. Popsicles

If something stains your lips, it is likely that it will also stain your teeth. A popsicle is a tasty, colorful snack that can quickly reverse the effects of a teeth whitening procedure. A popsicle can come in a wide variety of flavors. Dark-colored ones are more likely to discolor the enamel. Choose something light and refreshing but with fewer dyes, if you want to consume popsicles on a hot summer day. Otherwise, you run the risk of teeth discoloration.

5. Tomato sauce

Tomato sauce stains everything, including your clothes, tablecloths, a toddler's face, and, of course, your teeth. While the tomato sauce is a healthy choice, it isn't the ideal choice for your teeth after the whitening treatment. The acidity of tomatoes, as well as their bright red color, leave a stain on white teeth. Don't undo your dentist's hard work with spaghetti and marinara. Replace a tomato sauce with a white cream sauce to prevent staining.

6. Tobacco

While tobacco isn’t actually food or beverage, its significant staining effect is worth your attention. Your teeth have a porous surface and nicotine easily penetrates these pores, discoloring your teeth. Because your teeth may become even more porous after the teeth whitening treatment, it is critical to stop smoking. Even nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes or chewing tobacco can stain your teeth.