Following an in-office teeth whitening treatment at your dentist, or while using a take-home whitening kit from your dentist, you’ll want to ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible. In order to achieve this, there are certain foods that should be avoided to prevent staining; there are also foods that are recommended for those who experience tooth sensitivity after whitening. Read on for foods to enjoy and avoid after teeth whitening.
Why Does Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity for Some People?
Tooth sensitivity is typically the only side effect that anyone experiences after having their teeth whitened. For patients with naturally sensitive teeth, the whitening process can increase sensitivity. But even patients who have never experienced tooth sensitivity, may experience a bit of sensitivity after having their teeth bleached. Why?
Patients with thin tooth enamel tend to experience sensitivity more than others. Thin enamel provides less protection of the nerves in the teeth. Peroxide, which is a main ingredient in teeth whitening gels and solutions is known to irritate the nerves of the teeth.
Fortunately, for most people who experience sensitivity after teeth whitening, the discomfort is short lived, resolving within 24-48 hours. If you continue to experience sensitivity days after in-office whitening, contact your dentist.
If you are using a dental grade take home whitening kit, remember that the sensitivity may continue because you’re applying peroxide to the teeth each day.
If you have naturally sensitive teeth, you may want to begin using a special toothpaste about a week before your whitening appointment. Because temporary sensitivity after teeth whitening is common, it’s not a bad idea for all patients to use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth in the days that follow your treatment.
Foods for Sensitive Teeth After Whitening
If your teeth are sensitive after you’ve had a whitening treatment, or while you’re in the middle of whitening your teeth at home, avoid hot, cold, hard, chewy, and sugary foods. Foods that are less likely to irritate your teeth may include the following, served lukewarm or at room temperature.
- Mashed potatoes
- Noodles/pasta
- Applesauce (room temp)
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Broths (once cooled)
- Mashed avocado
- Banana
- Cooked vegetables, squash, zucchini
- Roasted potatoes
- Risotto
- Couscous
- Quinoa
- Rice
- Steamed cauliflower
- Polenta
- Fruit and veggie smoothies or juice (no ice)
Avoid Stain-Causing Foods After Whitening
Once you’ve achieved a brighter, whiter smile, you’re going to want to keep it that way. Therefore, it is best to avoid foods that are known to cause stains on the teeth. These include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Bright colored fruit (strawberries, raspberries, cherries, blueberries, blackberries, grapes
- Red and dark sauces (tomato sauce, steak sauce, BBQ sauce)
- Popsicles/slushies
- Dark juices (grape juice, prune juice)
You should also avoid smoking, vaping, or any form of smokeless tobacco after whitening your teeth.
Book an Appointment for Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is the most affordable way to give your smile a mini makeover. To book a consultation with Dr. Jamrozek for teeth whitening or other cosmetic dental treatment,call 973-728-3779 or send us a message to request an appointment.