If you just had your teeth professionally whitened by a skilled cosmetic dentist, you probably can’t wait to show off your sparkly smile. Teeth whitening results are truly something to be excited about, but did you know that your teeth are more susceptible to staining for the first few days after treatment? Keep reading for a list of tarnishing troublemakers that you’ll want to avoid.
Why Do I Have to Avoid Certain Foods?
Professional teeth whitening agents are considered safe – in fact, they’re approved by the FDA and ADA (American Dental Association) when administered by a qualified dentist. However, in order to slip through the pours in your enamel and remove stains, they contain chemicals that temporarily soften your enamel. Until your dental pours tighten again, it’ll be easier for less desirable pigments to settle into the surface of your teeth.
Foods With Chromogens
Put simply, chromogens are substances that, after undergoing a chemical reaction, produce strong, staining colors. They can be used in a good sense to create dyes, but you probably don’t want to dye your teeth! Here are examples of chromogen-rich foods you should avoid after your teeth whitening:
- Coffee
- Curry
- Food coloring
- Balsamic vinegar
- Beets
Tannin-Rich Delicacies
Like chromogens, tannins are a naturally occurring compound. Unlike chromogens, they’re plant-based, and are typically found in fruits, nuts, legumes, and spices. They might not directly cause staining, but they do make it easier for chromogens to stick to your teeth! Here’s a more detailed list of delicacies with tannins:
- Berries like strawberries and blueberries
- Hazelnuts
- Chocolate
- Wine
- Fruit juice
Acidic Nightmares
Acidic treats are problematic because they can wear down your enamel! As it softens, it will be easier for chromogens and tannins to stick to your pearly whites. This might sound similar to the teeth whitening process, but enjoying acidic foods in excess can cause long-term effects that won’t go away after a few days. Here’s what you should watch out for:
- Sauerkraut
- Soda
- Tomato juice or sauces
- Citrus-type fruits like oranges and pineapple
- Fish
Since some foods can contain all three dental stainers, planning out your post-whitening diet can be tricky! Fortunately, there’s a pretty good rule of thumb you can use: if it can stain your carpet or your tongue, it can probably stain your teeth. Remember that your dentist is there to support you, too. If you have questions about maintaining your cosmetic results, they’d be happy to help.
About the Practice
At D&G Dental of West Orange, we have not one, but five experienced and skilled dentists on staff. Their unique specialties enable us to provide patients with a comprehensive list of services and convenient care. If you have questions or concerns about teeth whitening, contact our office at 973-731-2200 and one of our friendly team members will be happy to help!