Post-Operative Instructions: In-Office Whitening

Everyone’s teeth have a protective layer called the “acquired pellicle.” This layer contains surface dental stains and is removed during a regular dental cleaning and the whitening process. It takes twelve to twenty-four hours for the barrier to fully develop again. During this period, we ask that you avoid the items listed below.

We recommend that you AVOID the following for the next 24 hours:

• Red Wine, Coca-Cola, Coffee, Tea
• Red sauces
• Mustard or ketchup
• Soy sauce, A-1 sauce
• Or anything that would stain a white shirt

White and clear foods you may consume for the next 24 hours:

• Milk, water, clear soda
• Bananas, apples (no peel)
• White bread, flour tortillas
• Oatmeal, cream of wheat
• Plain yogurt, white cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese
• White rice, baked potato
• Plain pasta and white sauce

You may also experience some tooth sensitivity during this period. If you do have any sensitivity symptoms, you may take whatever you would normally use for a headache.

• Whitening works best on yellow stained teeth. Gray teeth are more difficult to whiten or may not respond to treatment. Such cases may require porcelain veneers to achieve the desired result.
• Long term results vary from patient to patient. This can depend on many factors including habits such as coffee, tea, wine, or cola consumption and smoking.

Additional Ways to Maintain your Bright Healthy Smile!

• Avoid staining related habits.
• Use an electric toothbrush.
• Have regular professional dental cleanings at least twice a year or recommended by the hygienist and Doctor to maintain oral health, keep staining to a minimum.
• Practice good oral hygiene by tooth brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning.

prolong or discourage the healing process.