After teeth whitening: what can you eat, and how long does the effect last?

What can you eat after teeth whitening? For the first 48 hours it is worth keeping to a so-called white diet: avoid all strongly staining foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine, cola, tomato sauce, blueberries), because the tooth enamel is more prone to staining at this time. With proper dental care, the result of in-practice teeth whitening typically lasts as long as 1.5-2 years.

The first 48 hours: the white diet

Recommended: chicken and turkey, white fish, rice, pasta with a light sauce, natural yoghurt, eggs, cauliflower, bananas, water and milk.
To avoid: coffee, black tea and fruit tea, red wine, cola, berries, tomato- and soy-sauce-based dishes, turmeric seasoning, and smoking.

If you do have a coffee, drink water afterwards or use a straw, so the drink has less contact with the tooth surface.

Sensitivity after whitening: is it normal?

After teeth whitening, increased sensitivity to hot and cold may occur for 1-2 days; this is natural and passes on its own. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help during this period. In our practice we work with enamel-friendly technology that keeps this effect to a minimum, which we write about in the teeth whitening page.

How can you preserve the result for as long as possible?

• brushing thoroughly twice a day and using dental floss
• moderate consumption of staining drinks, preferably through a straw
• regular, six-monthly scaling and polishing, which also removes surface stains
• avoiding smoking; nicotine is one of the fastest yellowing factors

Frequently asked questions

How long do the results of teeth whitening last?

Depending on lifestyle, typically 1.5-2 years, after which the treatment can be repeated.

Which method is better: in-practice or at-home whitening?

In-practice whitening is controlled, gives a striking result in a single session, and we also take care to protect the gums. The effect of drugstore products is uncertain, and improper use can cause enamel damage. We wrote in detail about laser teeth whitening here.

How much does in-practice teeth whitening cost?

Our current prices can be found on the price list here.

Would you like a radiant smile? Book an appointment: +36 (20) 527-5547