Teeth whitening is a very popular dental procedure that can drastically improve the overall appearance of a patient’s teeth. The whiteness that is produced by this procedure can give a person the “Hollywood smile” that they are seeking. To ensure the results from your teeth whitening procedure are not undermined, you must take certain precautions immediately after treatment. This has led many to the question, “How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?” Below, we answer this question and share more information that will help you maintain your teeth whitening results.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular process that intends to make a patient’s teeth appear whiter and brighter. There are several different methods of teeth whitening, which can be selected depending on the preference of the patient and the recommendation of one’s dentist.
The most commonly employed teeth whitening treatments include:
- UV light therapy
- Sanding down stains
- Bleaching
Numerous teeth whitening products are also available over-the-counter at pharmacies. These products tend not to produce as reliable or long-lasting results as professional teeth whitening procedures performed by a dentist. It is generally recommended that patients who want to whiten their teeth seek professional treatment so they can achieve longer-lasting results and avoid harsh chemicals in over-the-counter whitening agents that may damage their enamel or gums.
Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
One of the primary side-effects of a teeth whitening process is that one’s teeth may be sensitive in the aftermath of the procedure. In addition, some level of gum and tooth irritation is also to be expected in the aftermath of a tooth whitening procedure.
Though these effects may seem concerning, they are typically minimal and will dissipate within a short time frame following your procedure. The tooth sensitivity that is produced through the teeth whitening process will likely be the most prohibitive side effect that a patient experiences after their procedure.
How Long After Teeth Whitening Can I Eat Normally?
The sensitivity produced by some teeth-whitening processes tends to make a patient highly sensitive to certain foods. In particular, very cold or very hot foods can dramatically impact a patient’s teeth during this period.
The exact period that a patient will need to wait to eat normally can vary heavily depending on the type of teeth whitening procedure that they receive. In general, most patients will need to wait at least 24 hours before the level of sensitivity in their teeth returns to normal.
Your dentist will provide you instructions following the completion of your procedure on how to best navigate the period following your teeth whitening. Following their instructions closely in this regard can help ensure that you are successful.
Caring for Your Teeth Whitening Results
There are steps you can take to help ensure that you preserve the results from your teeth whitening procedure. Avoiding certain foods, for instance, will keep the potential for teeth staining at a minimum following your procedure. Foods to avoid immediately after your teeth whitening session include:
- Red wine
- Colas
- Berries
- Tomato-based sauces
- Soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Chocolate
- Coffee and tea
Eating light-colored foods during this sensitive period can ensure that you do not accidentally stain your results and compromise them. Some examples of foods that will not stain your teeth include:
- Boiled potatoes
- Chicken breast
- Whitefish
- Bananas
- White bread
- White rice
Your dentist can recommend other foods that will not impact the results of your teeth whitening procedure.
Long Term Care
Even after the immediate aftermath of your procedure, it is important to practice proper dental hygiene in order to ensure that you maintain your results over a long period. Steps you can take to ensure that you maintain your results include:
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Using a whitening toothpaste
- Brushing your teeth after eating or drinking staining foods
- Visit the dentist regularly
In addition, your dentist may have personalized recommendations for you on how to maintain your teeth whitening results for the longest possible time. Following these recommendations will help to ensure that your teeth remain as white as the day of your treatment.
The Best Dentist in Long Beach
Jesmine Boghawala at iSmiles LB is a dentist who prides herself on offering patients the highest level of care available. If you would like to discuss an upcoming teeth whitening procedure, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
