What to Avoid, What to Expect, and When You Can Eat Normally

A whiter smile can instantly boost your confidence, but the success of your teeth whitening treatment doesn’t end at the dental chair. To maintain your results and avoid unwanted stains, proper aftercare is essential—especially during the first 48 hours.

At Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry, we want your whitening results to last. Here’s everything you need to know about what to avoid, how whitening works after treatment, and when you can return to your normal diet.

What Should You Avoid After Teeth Whitening?

Immediately after a whitening session, your enamel becomes temporarily more porous and vulnerable to staining. For at least 48 hours post-treatment, it’s critical to avoid the following:

Staining Beverages

Avoid: Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, cranberry or grape juice
These drinks contain tannins and pigments that quickly penetrate the enamel and discolor your teeth. Opt instead for clear or light-colored beverages, like water, milk, or apple juice.

Acidic Foods

Avoid: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar-based dressings, pickles
Acidic foods weaken enamel, making it easier for stains to set in. Choose alkaline or low-acid alternatives like bananas, cucumbers, steamed vegetables, and eggs.

Tobacco Products

Avoid: Smoking or chewing tobacco
Nicotine and tar are among the fastest ways to undo your whitening results. Not only do they cause stains, but they also harm your overall oral health. If possible, use this time as an opportunity to quit altogether.

Colored Toothpaste or Mouthwash

Avoid: Blue, green, or red oral hygiene products
These can re-stain teeth during this sensitive period. Use a white or clear toothpaste and mouthwash to preserve your bright new smile.

Do Teeth Continue to Whiten After Treatment?

Yes—your teeth may continue to whiten slightly for up to 48 hours after treatment.
Here’s why:

Professional whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide continue breaking down deep-set stains within the enamel and dentin even after you leave the office. This delayed whitening effect can lead to subtle improvements in brightness during the first two days post-treatment.

To support this continued whitening:

• Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Avoid staining foods and drinks
• Use a dentist-recommended whitening toothpaste

How Long Until I Can Eat Normally Again?

You can resume your normal diet 48 hours after whitening—once your enamel has re-hardened. Until then, stick to the “white diet”: foods and beverages that are light in color and low in acid.

Good choices include:

• Chicken, white fish, eggs, white rice
• Cauliflower, mashed potatoes, peeled apples
• Yogurt, milk, cottage cheese

Still be cautious post-48 hours. While your enamel is stronger, ongoing habits like daily coffee or dark soda consumption can slowly dull your results. Staying mindful of staining foods will help extend the life of your bright smile.

Long-Term Maintenance Tips for a Whiter Smile

• Brush twice daily with a whitening toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your enamel
• Drink water after meals to rinse away pigments
• Schedule regular cleanings to keep your smile fresh

Incorporate tooth-friendly foods like apples, celery, and cheese into your routine. These not only help clean your teeth naturally but also promote stronger enamel and healthier gums.

Keep Your Smile Bright with Smile LA

Our team is here to help you enjoy a confident, radiant smile long after your whitening appointment. By following these post-treatment care tips, you can maintain your results and protect your investment in your smile.

📅 Ready to refresh your smile?
Book a teeth whitening consultation today with Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry and discover just how bright your future can be.