Teeth whitening is a popular dental solution for people who want to achieve a brighter and whiter smile. It has become a common practice among individuals who wish to boost their confidence and have a more presentable appearance.
However, with all the benefits that come with teeth whitening, many people still have questions about how to best maintain their new smiles.
One of the most common inquiries is, “How long after teeth whitening can I eat?” This post will answer that question and more.
Bilistic Teeth Whitening
If you have used the Bilistic Teeth Whitening System, you should not eat until an hour after your bleaching session ends. The system comes with an after care guide that specifies this timeline.
The instructions outline that you should let your teeth rest for an hour and avoid eating anything that will stain them.
(If you use another teeth whitening system, this recommendation may vary, so it’s essential to check with the company you purchased from.)
“In general, it’s recommended that you wait at least 30-60 minutes after teeth whitening before you eat or drink anything other than water”1
Teeth Staining: Foods
It’s essential to not that most foods and drinks can stain your teeth, especially right after a teeth whitening session.
“After teeth whitening, it’s recommended to avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain your teeth for at least 24 hours.”2
You should avoid eating or drinking anything with dark or bright colors, such as berries, tomatoes, chocolate, red wine, and coffee, to name a few.
These products have pigments that can penetrate the enamel of your teeth, and consuming them can decrease the results of your teeth whitening session.
Tooth Harm: Acidic Foods
Moreover, the acidity of some foods like oranges and lemons, can also harm your teeth and contribute to sensitivity. So, it’s best to avoid consuming such items regularly if you’re looking to keep your teeth white.
“By following a strict diet 48 hours after whitening, you can enhance the effect of the treatment.”3
Brushing your teeth after eating these items helps to remove any leftover pigments and acid, but it’s not always possible to brush every time you have a meal.
Rinsing your mouth with water after eating can be a great alternative.
Tooth Sensitivity
Another thing to remember is that some whitening treatments can cause temporary tooth sensitivity in some people.
If you experience tooth sensitivity, it’s best to avoid consuming hot or cold foods and drinks to minimize the pain. Wait for a few days before indulging in any of these items.
Keeping Your Teeth Their Whitest
Having white teeth can boost your confidence and make you feel better about your smile. To ensure that you maintain your teeth’s optimal whiteness, it’s important to follow post-treatment instructions.
Stick to the timeline given by the dentist or the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid consuming any food or drink that can stain your teeth.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, also helps keep you teeth white and healthy.
If you follow these directions and general care for your teeth, your new pearly whites should shine for months!
