So, let’s say you’ve just wrapped up a teeth whitening treatment with your dentist. You’re probably feeling pretty good about it. After all, your pearly whites are finally living up to their name! Even so, you still need to be careful to ensure your whitened smile lasts. If you’re not, something you eat or drink could stain your teeth all over again. That said, your Auburn dentist has a solution. Here’s a summary of why to eat a “white diet” after whitening and four foods that whiten teeth.
What’s This About a “White Diet”?
Unfortunately, whitening doesn’t just brighten your smile. It also makes your teeth more porous, putting them at risk of stains. In other words, foods and drinks with dark pigments could undo your treatment. With one wrong step, your next meal could discolor your pearly whites.
However, there are safe things you could have at this point. In particular, white and light-colored products wouldn’t stain your teeth. Dentists thus suggest you have these “White Diet” items for twenty-four hours following treatment. Afterward, your teeth will be less porous and won’t interfere with your usual meals.
Foods You Can Eat After Teeth Whitening
The “White Diet” has a variety of foods you can choose from. Some of them include the following:
Fish, Chicken, & Tofu
Lean proteins like fish, chicken, and tofu are great for your whole body, not just your teeth. They boost your energy and muscle strength, and their light color won’t leave stains. Still, try not to have these items with vibrant seasonings or sauces; stick to white sauces instead.
Rice, Bread, & Pasta
Grains usually won’t cause tooth stains. Be on the lookout, though, for bread and pasta that list molasses or food coloring in their ingredients. The latter materials give grains a darker appearance, which can transfer to teeth.
White Cheese & Yogurt
It’d be best if you skipped the artificially-colored cheeses and yogurts. Rather, try white cheese and yogurt that shield teeth from acid and contain enamel-building calcium.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
Light-colored fruits and vegetables like pears, bananas, apples, cauliflower, potatoes, and mushrooms contain needed vitamins and minerals. Plus, they don’t stain teeth!
If you stick to foods like those above, your whitened teeth will last longer. Feel free to talk to your dentist for more suggestions.
About the Author
Dr. Manpreet Dhaliwal is a dentist based in Auburn, WA, having earned his dental doctorate from the University of Detroit’s Mercy School of Dentistry. For nearly a decade, he’s personally helped patients find relief with his comprehensive dental services. His specialties are preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency procedures. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach him at his website or by phone at (253)-833-2290.