When To Eat After Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is an effective procedure that doesn't require any extensive time off from work or school. It can be performed over a lunch hour in most cases. Clients might wonder when they can eat after the procedure, however. Take a look at the top tips to protect those pearly whites.
1. The 48-Hour Rule
Most dentists agree that eating after a teeth whitening procedure is acceptable, but limiting the food selections is key. Any process that whitens the teeth will leave them vulnerable to further staining immediately following the procedure.
UltraSmile Dentistry suggests the 48-hour rule. Patients can certainly eat anytime after the procedure. During the first two to three days, however, choose foods that are white or pale in color.
Most people agree with this time frame because the teeth and gums might be irritated after a procedure. There's no real pain, but discomfort with acidic or strong foods may be possible. Selecting bland and colorless foods protects the whitening work while reducing any irritation.
2. Listen To The Body
Some people are more sensitive to teeth whitening than others. It's a safe and effective procedure, however, every person is different. Knowing when to eat after whitening is also a personal choice. If a person doesn't feel like a huge meal, follow that instinct. Nibble on small snacks, such as white cheese or crackers, to keep the calorie intake normal.
Drink plenty of water after the procedure too. Remaining hydrated will help the gum tissue recover so that a person's normal diet can be implemented once again. After the first day, the teeth and gums should be well enough for selective foods.
3. Choosing The Proper Foods
Those whitened teeth are susceptible to extensive staining in the first 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. Select these foods for daily meals, such as:
- Bananas
- White rice
- White pasta
- Milk
- Egg whites
This so-called white diet protects the teeth from stains and discomfort. Eat them immediately following the procedure if desired.
People must keep up their strength with ample nutrients, so try a little bit of everything as the teeth recover from the procedure.
Avoid any hard produce, such as carrots, until after 48 to 72 hours. They can scrape the teeth and irritate them.
4. Sipping On Broth
If a person deals with discomfort over a few days, sipping on broth is a clever way to take in nutrients. Ideally, simmer chicken on the stove to create a nutrient-rich broth. Sip on the cooled broth so that the teeth and gums are largely left out of the eating process.
The body still receives critical nutrients while preserving the teeth's whitened condition. Graduate to eating the simmered chicken when the person feels comfortable with the action. Most people feel inclined to eat well within the 48-hour period.
The chosen whitening system will dictate when a person can eat after the procedure. Follow these instructions so that the teeth can be as white as possible. A beautiful smile is the result of these efforts.