How Long After Teeth Whitening Can I Eat?

Professional teeth whitening is a safe, effective way to brighten your smile. In-office teeth whitening provides immediate, dramatic results, while take-home treatment provides noticeable results over time in the convenience of your home. 

Teeth whitening treatment is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures. Over time, teeth can easily become discolored or stained from beverages, foods, tobacco use, and medications. But bleaching treatments can remove these stains to give you a whiter smile. 

When it comes to teeth whitening, a common question that arises is how long after teeth whitening can I eat? Here’s what you need to know about eating following teeth whitening treatment. 

When Should You Eat After Teeth Whitening?

As far as the timing is concerned, there are two timelines you need to follow after teeth whitening treatment. The first is to wait at least 4 hours before eating anything. The reason for this is that the bleaching agent that is applied to your teeth must have time to work. Effective bleaching takes a few hours, so waiting to eat allows for more dramatic results. Water should be the only thing you consume in the first few hours following teeth whitening. 

Foods and Beverages to Avoid in the First Few Days

The second timeline to be aware of is the first few days following your whitening treatment. You should avoid consuming certain types of foods and beverages for at least 24 hours after teeth whitening, and as long as 72 hours. This includes teeth staining and highly acidic items like coffee, tea, soft drinks, red wine, tomato sauce, soy sauce, fruit juice, alcohol, blueberries, blackberries, and artificially dyed foods and beverages. After whitening your teeth are more susceptible to staining and may also be more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. 

What Should You Eat After Teeth Whitening?

There are many foods that are safe to eat after teeth whitening, primarily white foods and beverages. Recommendations include white meat, white rice, pasta, white bread, egg whites, white cheeses, peeled potatoes, cauliflower, milk, and any other white or lightly colored foods. These are the best foods and beverages for the first 24-72 hours, after which you can consume other items more freely. 

Consider Avoiding Certain Foods and Beverages Permanently

For lasting results you may want to avoid teeth-staining foods and beverages permanently. It may be difficult for you to give up some of your favorite things, but your teeth will stay whiter for a longer period of time if you can. If you aren’t willing to give certain items up completely, consider reducing the amount you consume. Otherwise, at-home touch up kits can help you keep your teeth white in between professional whitening treatments. 

Blossom Dentistry Provides Teeth Whitening Treatment 

We provide both in-office and take-home teeth whitening treatments that are highly effective, yet gentle on your teeth. Not only are store-bought products less effective, they are also more likely to cause sensitivity and potential damage to your teeth. Whitening toothpastes tend to be highly abrasive, which can wear down the enamel on your teeth. Whitening strips contain harsh bleaching agents that often make teeth feel sensitive at the time of treatment and afterwards. Our whitening products provide dramatic results with minimal after effects. 

Do you want a brighter smile? Call 202-922-2900 today to schedule an appointment.