(708) 383-0330

Teeth whitening is one of the most desirable treatments in cosmetic dentistry because it can make such a big difference in how you look and feel. But after your treatment, you need to take extra care of your teeth to keep them white and healthy. 

Have you been thinking about brightening your smile in 2025? Now’s the perfect time! Schedule a professional whitening treatment at Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL. Dial (708) 383-0330 for a consultation with Dr. Thomas W. Wegner today!

After professional whitening treatments, you’ll want to maintain your results for as long as possible. So, here are five things you should never do after professional teeth whitening if you want to keep your smile glowing.

1. Don’t Drink Dark-Colored Beverages

After teeth whitening, your teeth are more likely to absorb stains for at least 48 hours. That means you should stay away from drinks like:

  • Dark sodas
  • Coffee
  • Red wine
  • Tea

These drinks can stain teeth quickly, undoing all the hard work of your whitening treatment. If you must have a dark-colored beverage, try:

  • Drinking through a metal or reusable straw to limit exposure. 
  • Rinsing your mouth with water right after drinking anything that could stain your teeth.

2. Don’t Eat Staining Foods

Just like drinks, certain foods can stain your teeth after a whitening treatment. For at least two days after whitening, avoid foods like:

  • Pomegranates and berries
  • Tomato-based sauces and dips
  • Soy sauce
  • Dark chocolate
  • Turmeric

These foods contain strong pigments that can dull your newly lightened teeth. Instead, choose lighter-colored foods, like chicken, rice, pasta, and potatoes

A good rule to follow is: if a food can stain a white shirt, it can stain your teeth, too!

3. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products

Smoking and using tobacco products are some of the worst things you can do after teeth bleaching. The nicotine and tar in tobacco can quickly stain your teeth, making them look yellow or brown. 

4. Don’t Brush Too Hard

After teeth whitening, your teeth may be more sensitive for a few days. Brushing too hard can make this sensitivity worse and even damage your enamel

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a very gentle touch to clean your teeth. You may also want to use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth to help with any discomfort

5. Don’t Skip Good Oral Hygiene

Even though your teeth look great now, it’s important to keep up with daily brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene will help your teeth stay pearly white and prevent stains from sticking to teeth. 

Brush every single tooth twice a day, floss once a day, and visit our dentist in Oak Park, IL, for regular check-ups. Dr. Wegner may also suggest touch-up whitening sessions to keep your smile looking its best.

Glow Up with Professional Teeth Whitening in Oak Park, IL

Teeth whitening can give you a beautiful, bright smile, but you have to take care of it. By following these tips, you can enjoy your whiter smile for longer. If you have any questions about teeth whitening or cosmetic dentistry, ask Dr. Wegner for advice

Click here to request a consultation, or call Town and Country Dental at (708) 383-0330 to enjoy a new, brighter smile today!