Can I Drink Water After Teeth Whitening Strips?

Written by Dr. Brian Harris

November 30, 2023

Today, we're tackling a common question that puzzles many of our customers: "Can I drink water after teeth whitening strips?" It's a valid concern, especially for those who are new to the world of at-home teeth whitening.

Understanding the dos and don'ts after using whitening strips can significantly impact the effectiveness of your treatment.

So, let's dive into this topic and shed some light on the best practices for maintaining that sparkling smile! 

What this article covers:

How Do Whitening Strips Lighten the Color of Your Teeth?

At SNOW, we understand the science behind a brighter smile. Our teeth whitening strips aren't just a cosmetic quick-fix; they're a result of understanding how teeth discoloration works and how to effectively combat it. Let's delve into the science behind this process.

According to the ADA, tooth discoloration can be classified into two types: extrinsic and intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are surface-level stains caused by environmental factors like tobacco use or consumption of pigmented foods and beverages. Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur inside the tooth due to factors like aging, certain medications, or genetic conditions.

can you drink water with teeth whitening strips

Our whitening strips primarily target these stains using key ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These bleaching agents work by breaking down stains into smaller pieces, making the teeth appear brighter.

Hydrogen peroxide, a strong oxidizing agent, diffuses through the enamel and reacts with the colored compounds in both the enamel and dentin. This reaction, a process of chemical oxidation, alters the color of the teeth, leading to a whiter appearance.

The effectiveness of these agents depends on various factors, including the type of stain and the concentration of the peroxide. For instance, brown stains due to fluorosis may respond more effectively to bleaching than white stains. The treatment duration and the number of treatments required also vary based on the type of discoloration.

It's important to note that while our products are designed to be safe and effective, a clinical exam and understanding of one's dental history are crucial before starting any whitening treatment. This ensures that the treatment is suitable for your specific dental needs and will not affect any existing dental work, such as crowns or implants, which do not respond to bleaching.

Why Does Drinking Water Dilute the Whitening Process?

Drinking water immediately after using whitening strips can indeed dilute the whitening agent, reducing its effectiveness. The active ingredients in our strips, such as hydrogen peroxide, need sufficient time to interact with the tooth enamel to lift and break down stains effectively. Introducing water too soon into this process can interrupt the chemical reaction necessary for optimal whitening results.

can you drink water after teeth whitening strips

How Dehydration Assists The Whitening Process

It's not about promoting dehydration but rather about maximizing the efficacy of the whitening treatment. When you avoid drinking water immediately after applying whitening strips, you allow the active ingredients more uninterrupted time to work on the enamel. This ensures a more effective and longer-lasting whitening effect.

According to WebMD, tooth whitening is most often done using peroxide-based bleaching agents. These agents, when applied to the teeth, require a certain amount of time to act effectively. Introducing water or any liquid soon after the application can dilute these agents, leading to less effective whitening. This is because the peroxide needs to remain concentrated to penetrate the enamel and break down the stains that cause discoloration.

In essence, the key to a successful whitening process is allowing the active ingredients the time they need to work. This is why we recommend waiting a while before consuming any liquids after using SNOW's teeth whitening strips. By following this simple guideline, you can ensure that you get the most out of your whitening treatment and enjoy a brighter, more radiant smile.

Should You Avoid All Drinks After Whitening Strips?

When it comes to maintaining that dazzling smile after using SNOW's teeth whitening strips, a common question arises: should you avoid all drinks immediately afterward? The answer is yes, but let's delve into why this is important.

After applying whitening strips, it's advisable to avoid all drinks for a short period. This precaution is crucial because the whitening process makes your teeth slightly more porous, affecting the underlying dentin layer temporarily. During this time, your teeth are more susceptible to staining from various beverages.

Drinks To Avoid

  1. Teas and Coffee: Both contain tannins that can darken teeth. With your teeth more porous following whitening, these tannins can stain your teeth more quickly.
  2. Red and White Wines: These can cause staining or erosion due to high acidity and dark pigment.
  3. Fizzy Soft Drinks: High in sugar, color additives, and acidity, these drinks can strip off tooth enamel and cause dark surface staining.
  4. Fruit and Vegetable Juices: Especially dark-colored ones, these juices contain high acidity and can negatively affect tooth enamel, causing staining or discoloration.
  5. Dark Colored Sauces and Condiments: Such as soy sauce, mustard, and ketchup, which can stain teeth.
  6. Foods with Colorants or Dyes: These include sports drinks, popsicles, and others, which should also be avoided.
drinking water with teeth whitening strips

When Can You Drink After Using Teeth Whitening Strips?

We recommend waiting at least 30 minutes after removing the whitening strips before drinking water or any other beverage.

This waiting period allows the whitening agent to fully penetrate and act on the tooth enamel.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to a brighter smile with SNOW's teeth whitening strips means understanding the do's and don'ts for optimal results.

From avoiding drinks post-whitening to knowing when it's safe to indulge again, we've covered the essentials to help you maintain that dazzling smile.

Remember, the key to a successful teeth whitening experience lies in following these simple yet effective guidelines.

Ready to transform your smile? Explore our range of teeth whitening products and take the first step towards a more confident, radiant you with SNOW.

Frequently Asked Questions about Drinking After Teeth Whitening

If I'm Thirsty, Can I Swish And Spit The Water Out?

While it's better to avoid introducing any liquid into your mouth immediately after whitening, if you're really thirsty, a quick swish and spit with water is less likely to interfere significantly with the whitening process.

What Are Some Alternatives To Drinking Water After Teeth Whitening Strips?

If you're feeling thirsty after your whitening session, consider moistening your mouth with a small amount of water, or wait a bit longer until you can drink normally.

When Can I Drink Coffee Again After Whitening Strips?

We recommend waiting at least 48 hours before consuming coffee or other staining beverages. This waiting period allows your teeth to rehydrate and reseal, reducing the risk of new stains.

Is It Okay To Use Mouthwash Right After Whitening Strips?

It's best to wait at least 30 minutes before using mouthwash after whitening strips. Choose a mouthwash that's gentle and alcohol-free to avoid irritation.

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