PROTECT YOUR PEARLY
WHITES
FOOD AND DRINK IDEAS TO ENJOY (AND AVOID) AFTER A TEETH WHITENING PROCEDURE BY DR. EDMOND SUH
Who doesn’t love a bright smile? Sure, you brush and floss regularly ... but your teeth just aren’t as white as they used to be. While brushing and flossing are crucial for healthy teeth, food and beverage choices often mean people need professional whitening treatments to restore their natural whiteness, allowing them to get their beautiful smiles back.
– White yogurt: any colored yogurt may result in staining; – Bananas; – Lemonade: not pink or other fruits; – Water and sparkling water; – Skim milk: avoid whole or 2%; – Coconut water: avoid coconut milk; – Colorless, carbonated-free cocktails.
These procedures require an investment of money, time, and
WHAT NOT TO CONSUME
effort, so you will want to enjoy the results for the longest
Now that you have an idea of what’s recommended to consume after teeth whitening, let’s take a look at the foods to avoid. Generally, it’s advised that you steer clear of any colored foods and drinks as they risk staining your teeth.
time possible. Therefore, choosing what to eat and drink
D
after teeth whitening is of utmost importance. entists advise that you avoid foods that stain teeth after whitening for at least two to three days after the procedure. A rule of thumb is that anything that can stain your white shirt can also stain your teeth. So, what can you eat after teeth whitening, and what should you avoid? (Please note these are not comprehensive lists.)
WHAT TO CONSUME Generally, it’s recommended that you stick to a white diet after teeth whitening, to ensure best aftercare results, such as: – White fish: such as Atlantic cod and albacore; avoid dark species; – White rice; – Skinless chicken or turkey: these are lightly colored, healthy, and acid-free; – Egg whites: be sure to do away with the yolk when cooking because of its color; – White cheeses: because of their high calcium content, white cheeses improve overall enamel and gum health; – Pasta: also a good choice, but avoid colored sauces like green pesto and tomato sauce; – Potatoes: just make sure you peel them before cooking; – White bread: great for breakfast, but remove the crust to avoid any staining risks; – White onions: avoid red onions in your meals; 48
CIRCA Magazine
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