What Can I Drink After Teeth Whitening?

Written by Dr. Brian Harris

December 28, 2023

Welcome to the essential guide on What Can I Drink After Teeth Whitening? Post-whitening care is crucial for maintaining that gleaming smile.

Immediately after teeth whitening, stick to clear or white liquids like water, milk, or coconut water. Avoid dark, acidic, or cold drinks to prevent staining and sensitivity.

This article will delve into the specifics of post-whitening care, highlighting drinks to avoid and how long to wait before returning to your normal diet.

We'll also answer common FAQs to ensure your teeth whitening results are long-lasting and effective. Let's dive in and keep that smile shining bright!

What this article covers:

What Are the Short-Term Effects of Teeth Whitening?

Embarking on a journey to a brighter smile with teeth whitening, especially with at-home products like ours at SNOW, is exciting. However, it's important to be aware of the short-term effects that can accompany this process. While our Teeth Whitening Kit, Whitening Strips, and Whitening Toothpaste are designed for comfort and effectiveness, some common temporary reactions include tooth sensitivity and mild gum irritation.

foods to avoid when whitening teeth

According to Verywell Health, tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening. This sensitivity can range from mild discomfort to more pronounced sensations, especially when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.

This occurs because the whitening process can temporarily make your teeth more porous, allowing stimuli to reach the nerves more easily.

Gum irritation is another potential short-term effect. This usually happens when the whitening agent comes into contact with your gums, causing mild discomfort or sensitivity. It's important to follow application instructions carefully to minimize this risk.

At SNOW, we understand these concerns and have formulated our products to reduce such effects. Our whitening kit, for instance, includes a serum that's designed to be gentle on your teeth and gums, minimizing sensitivity and irritation.

Additionally, using our whitening toothpaste can help soothe and protect your teeth post-whitening, making your journey to a brighter smile as comfortable as possible. Remember, these effects are typically short-lived and should subside within a few days. If you experience prolonged discomfort, it's advisable to consult with a dental professional.

what not to do after teeth whitening

Drinks You Should Avoid After Teeth Whitening

After brightening your smile with teeth whitening, it's important to know what to drink after teeth whitening and which drinks to avoid to maintain those results. At SNOW, we emphasize the importance of post-whitening care, and part of that involves being mindful of your beverage choices.

Let's explore the types of drinks you should steer clear of to protect your dental glow-up.

1. Dark-Colored Drinks

Drinking coffee after teeth whitening, and dark-colored beverages like tea, red wine, and cola are notorious for staining teeth. These drinks contain pigments that can quickly adhere to tooth enamel, potentially reversing the effects of your whitening treatment. Healthline notes that your teeth are still susceptible to staining from beverages like tea and coffee after any whitening treatment.

To preserve your whitening results, we recommend avoiding these drinks for at least 48 hours post-treatment. If you do choose to indulge later, consider using a straw to minimize direct contact with your teeth.

2. Cold Beverages

Increased tooth sensitivity is a common side effect post-whitening. Therefore, very cold drinks can cause discomfort. Cold temperatures can exacerbate this sensitivity, making your teeth feel uncomfortable.

To keep your teeth comfortable and avoid triggering sensitivity, opt for room temperature beverages during the initial days following your whitening treatment. Our Sensitive Whitening Strips can also help reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.

3. Acidic Beverages

Acidic drinks, such as citrus juices and sports drinks, pose a risk to your newly whitened teeth. These beverages can weaken enamel and increase sensitivity. After whitening, your teeth are more vulnerable to acid erosion.

As recommended by experts, avoiding acidic beverages in the immediate aftermath of teeth whitening is best to prevent enamel damage and maintain the integrity of your whitening results. Instead, choose pH-neutral drinks like water to keep hydrated and support oral health.

By avoiding these types of drinks after your teeth whitening treatment, you can enjoy the benefits of your brighter smile for longer. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular touch-ups with products like our Advanced Whitening Kit and Vitamin-Infused Whitening Toothpaste can also help sustain your whitening results.

How Long After Teeth Whitening Can I Drink Normally?

After using our SNOW Teeth Whitening products, it's natural to wonder when you can return to your regular drinking habits. The first 48 hours post-whitening are critical for the best results. During this period, your teeth are more vulnerable to staining and sensitivity.

We recommend adhering to a "white diet," which includes clear or white liquids like water, milk, and coconut water. This careful approach helps ensure the longevity of your whitening results.

After the initial 48-hour period, you can start to reintroduce other drinks into your diet. However, it's important to proceed with caution. It's recommended to avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain your teeth for at least 24 hours. This includes drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine.

foods that stain teeth after whitening

As you gradually return to your normal diet, remember that moderation and good oral hygiene are essential. Drinking staining beverages occasionally and maintaining regular dental care, including using our Teeth Whitening Toothpaste, can help sustain your whitening results.

It's also beneficial to rinse your mouth with water after consuming pigmented drinks to minimize potential staining. Our whitening mouthwash can help you out too if you make it a part of your nighttime routine.

To play it safe, give your teeth at least 48 hours before resuming normal drinking habits, and continue to be mindful of beverages that can stain your teeth. With proper care and moderation, you can enjoy your brighter smile for a longer time.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of whitening teeth at home can be a rewarding experience, especially when you're equipped with the right knowledge and products.

From understanding the short-term effects of teeth whitening to knowing which drinks to avoid post-treatment, this guide has covered essential aspects to help maintain your dazzling results. Remember, the first 48 hours are crucial, and following a white diet is key.

As you continue to enjoy your brighter teeth, keep in mind the importance of moderation and good oral hygiene. For more information and to explore our range of teeth whitening solutions, visit SNOW. Here's to a radiant and confident you!  

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