Four Things You Should Not Eat After Teeth Whitening Treatment

Teeth whitening is a popular procedure that can remove years of unwanted stains to improve your smile. Though this simple treatment at Parker West Dental Associates doesn't require much time or effort, it's important to understand the process and follow aftercare instructions as provided by cosmetic dentist Dr. Tim Nguyen – including not consuming any staining food or drinks.

Want to keep your pearly whites shining long after teeth whitening? Here are four things to avoid eating and drinking in Frisco, McKinney, Plano, and Richardson, TX.

1. Coffee and tea

Are you a coffee lover? Many Americans drink at least one cup of coffee per day. Though this delicious beverage can provide a much-needed energy boost, it's also notorious for staining teeth. The tannins in coffee attach to tooth enamel and cause yellow or brown discoloration. If you won't give up your morning cup of joe, you may want to switch to a light-roast coffee, which has fewer tannins than dark roast.

Like coffee, tea contains tannins that also cause tooth discoloration. Some types of tea – such as black and green tea – are more likely to stain teeth than coffee. However, white tea is the least likely to cause staining. We encourage you to research the different types of tea and their effects on the enamel before your next cup.

2. Red wine

Red wine is another beverage that causes tooth discoloration. This is because it contains chromogens, which are deeply pigmented molecules that attach to your teeth. In addition, red wine is acidic, which can wear down the enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to staining.

If you have the occasional glass of red wine, our cosmetic dentist recommends using a straw, so the drink avoids contact with your teeth. Dr. Nguyen also suggests rinsing your mouth with water to help remove any unwanted residue.

3. Berries

Many people love berries, but they may not realize these fruits cause staining. Blueberries, blackberries, and cherries also contain chromogens that attach to the enamel. People who drink fruit juices or eat jam made from berries are also at risk for discoloration. And while pale fruits like white grapes are less likely to cause stains, they still contain acids that weaken the teeth.

Can't give up your favorite nutritious snack in Frisco, McKinney, Plano, and Richardson, TX? Rinse your mouth after eating colorful berries or brush your teeth to remove staining agents.

4. Sauces

Some sauces – such as tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce – may add flavor to your food but should also be avoided for many of the same reasons as berries and red wine. These sauces contain elements that cause staining and break down tooth enamel. Dr. Nguyen recommends avoiding these sauces after teeth whitening treatment for at least a short period.

Keep your teeth shining bright

We understand some foods and drinks are hard to give up, even after teeth whitening. Anyone considering this cutting-edge treatment in Frisco, McKinney, Plano, or Richardson, TX is encouraged to contact Parker West Dental Associates in Plano, TX for a consultation with cosmetic dentist Dr. Tim Nguyen. He can review the process in detail and provide specific aftercare instructions to help ensure the best possible outcomes.