Teeth whitening strips have become a popular way for people to brighten their smiles at home. These thin, flexible strips are coated with a teeth whitening gel and worn over the teeth to gradually remove stains. While teeth whitening strips are generally safe when used as directed, some people wonder if they need to avoid eating or drinking for a period of time after using them.
How Teeth Whitening Strips Work
Teeth whitening strips contain peroxide-based whitening agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When the strips are applied to the teeth, the whitening gel comes into contact with stains and bleaches them away. The peroxide breaks down into oxygen and other whitening compounds that penetrate the outer enamel layer of the teeth to lift stains.
Most teeth whitening strips are designed to be worn for 30 minutes to 1 hour at a time, once or twice per day. The longer they are in contact with the teeth, the better the results. Visible improvements in tooth shade may be seen in as little as 3-7 days of continued use.
Can You Eat Right After Using Teeth Whitening Strips?
Most dentists recommend avoiding eating or drinking anything except water for at least 30 minutes after using teeth whitening strips. Here are some reasons why:
- The whitening gel needs time to fully penetrate and act on the enamel.
- Food and beverages can wash away or dilute the peroxide gel.
- Staining foods and drinks may counteract the whitening effects.
- Chewing or eating can dislodge the strips from the teeth.
Swallowing any of the whitening gel that comes off the strips in your mouth can also cause temporary stomach irritation in some people.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid After Whitening
Once the 30 minutes is up after using whitening strips, you still need to be mindful of what you consume. Some foods and beverages are more likely to stain teeth that have just been whitened.
Avoid the following for at least 24 hours after using strips:
- Coffee, red wine, cola, tea, dark juices
- Tomato-based foods like pasta sauce, salsa, and ketchup
- Dark berries like blueberries and blackberries
- Curries, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar
- Hard candies, popsicles, Jell-O
The good news is you don’t have to avoid eating altogether during the whitening process. Just stick to blander, non-staining fare. Safe options include:
- Milk, plain yogurt, cheese
- Bread, rice, pasta
- Lightly seasoned chicken, turkey, fish
- Fruits like bananas, apples, pineapple
- Vegetables like lettuce, carrots, sweet potato
- Plain water, seltzer water
Preventing Sensitivity
Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation from teeth whitening strips. Sensitivity is more likely if you have existing dental issues like cavities, cracks, or gum recession.
You can reduce the chance of sensitivity by:
- Brushing and flossing before applying the strips
- Using strips for shorter times, especially the first few uses
- Rinsing with plain water after taking strips off
- Avoiding acidic or hot and cold foods and drinks for a few hours
- Using sensitivity toothpaste for a few days
The sensitivity is usually mild and goes away within 1-2 days after whitening. Talk to your dentist if it persists or worsens.
Results from At-Home Whitening Strips
With consistent use, teeth whitening strips can lighten your teeth shade by up to 8 shades or more. However, results vary from person to person. The degree of staining, genetics, age, and thickness of enamel all affect how much lighter your teeth will get.
On average, using whitening strips for the recommended treatment time (often 14-30 days) provides about 2-6 shades of whitening.
| Time Period | Average Whitening Effect |
|---|---|
| 3-7 days | 1-2 shades lighter |
| 7-14 days | 2-4 shades lighter |
| 14-21 days | 3-6 shades lighter |
| 21-30 days | 5-8 shades lighter |
Keep in mind results depend on many factors, including how well you follow the instructions for use and watching what you eat and drink after whitening.
Maintaining a Bright Smile
While teeth whitening strips produce pretty dramatic results in a short time, they are not a permanent solution. Over time, everyday habits like drinking coffee and tea, smoking, and eating foods that stain can make your teeth dull again. Here are some tips to make your whitened smile last longer:
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily
- Use whitening toothpaste to help maintain brightness
- Drink beverages like coffee and wine through a straw to reduce contact with teeth
- Rinse mouth with water after consuming staining foods or drinks
- Limit how often you consume staining foods and beverages
- Get professional teeth cleanings every 6 months
- Use whitening strips for touch-ups every few months
Seeing a Dentist Before Whitening
While teeth whitening strips are considered very safe when directions are followed, it’s recommended to consult your dentist first if you have:
- Tooth decay, damaged enamel, or gum disease
- Sensitive teeth and gums
- Dental restorations like crowns, bridges, veneers or tooth-colored fillings
- Braces or other orthodontic appliances
The dentist can check for any issues that might be irritated or damaged by the peroxide gel. They can also advise you on whether strips are a good option for your specific dental situation.
Conclusion
While it’s best not to eat or drink right after using teeth whitening strips, you don’t have to fast during the treatment process. Just avoid heavily stained foods and beverages for about 24 hours after each use. Drink plenty of water and stick to lighter fare to prevent stains while still getting nutrition. With some care and patience, you’ll be rewarded with a bright, beautiful smile using at-home whitening strips.
