How Long After Teeth Whitening Can I Drink Coffee?

Whitening your teeth can be a euphoric experience. After all, it’s one of the most performed cosmetic dental procedures, and it’s always been rather popular. Various teeth whitening methods exist, but the most popular method is in-office teeth bleaching since it’s the most efficient. If you’d also like pearly white teeth, you can read more here and perhaps schedule an appointment.

Without further ado, let’s discuss teeth whitening and everything you need to know about what you can and can’t consume in the aftermath of this cosmetic dental procedure. 

Teeth Whitening 101 

As we’ve already mentioned, there are quite a few different ways to whiten your teeth. So, let’s quickly discuss them before moving on to this article’s core matter.

Teeth Whitening Toothpaste 

This method isn’t that efficient unless you only want to go up to a shade lighter. However, it’s a decent way to maintain the whiteness of your teeth. It lacks efficiency because it does not contain bleach, so its powers are limited. However, it takes care of surface stains and can make the teeth seem more polished.

Over-The-Counter Whitening Strips and Gels 

If you’re looking for something simple but still relatively effective, over-the-counter whitening strips and gels are a good idea. They produce better results than tooth-whitening toothpaste, and you can buy them pretty much everywhere. Additionally, you’ll be able to notice changes within only a few days, and the final results can last you up to about four months. 

Teeth Whitening Rinses

So, whitening rinses work the same way as mouthwash. They can freshen up your breath, keep gum disease at bay, and help in reducing dental plaque. However, due to them containing hydrogen peroxide, they also have the power to whiten your teeth. All you need to do is swish the whitening rinse in your mouth for about 60 seconds twice a day before brushing your teeth. 

Tray-Based Whitening Systems 

Tray-based whiteners are effective and accessible. They’re usually made of flexible material and molded to the shape of your teeth, this appliance is then filled with a gel tooth-whitening solution, and then you’re tasked with wearing it for some time. How long the process will last will ultimately depend on the level of discoloration. The method can take a few hours to several weeks to show desirable results. 

There are two different options when considering tray-based whitening kits. You can buy them over the counter or from your dentist. The latter ones are more high-quality and produce better results faster. They’re also custom-made, which makes them safer and easier to use. 

Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening 

Professional in-office whitening is the fastest way to get your dream smile. It’s also the most effective, and therefore it also costs the most. The way this treatment goes is that the whitening product is applied to your teeth and then exposed to a laser or a special light. The treatments usually last 30–60 minutes, and your teeth can become three to eight shades lighter. 

Drinks and Foods You Should Avoid After Teeth Whitening   

Now, let’s get to the question on everyone’s mind: How long after teeth whitening can I drink coffee? Well, the short answer is 48 hours, but there’s much more to it, which we will discuss further in the following sections.

The general consensus is that you should avoid coffee and red wine after your teeth whitening procedure. But should you lay off these for good? And, are there other foods and liquids you should avoid? Let’s find out.

Coffee 

Coffee is the elixir of life for many. It’s what helps you wake up in the morning and go on with your day. So, it’s understandable that many people struggle to avoid it in situations where they need to. 

As we’ve mentioned, 48 hours is the minimum amount of time to avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks, but ideally, you should try to cut on caffeine in general. Or, rather, you should drink less coffee faster. 

But why avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages? Well, caffeine contains tannins, which have a tendency to destroy your tooth enamel and leave you with yellowish stains. And it’s not only the aesthetics. Coffee can also lead to plaque formation, which causes bacterial growth, opening the door to further problems. 

None of the whitening methods we mentioned can keep your teeth pearly forever. Your teeth need your help too. That doesn’t mean you should forsake caffeinated drinks for good. Instead, limit your intake, try using a straw, or rinse or wash your teeth more frequently when consuming these beverages. 

Red Wine 

Along with clothes and furniture, red wine can also stain your teeth. Wine also contains tannins, which, as we mentioned, play a central role in creating tooth stains. The same rule is also valid here, stay away from red wine for at least two days, but preferably longer.

For the long term, you should simply limit your red wine consumption habits or try switching it up and drinking white wine or rosé. Like with most problematic beverages, try upping your oral health habits and rinse your mouth with water more frequently.

Other Products That Can Cause Tooth Stains 

Staying away from coffee and red wine won’t be enough. Unfortunately, many other products also have dyes, tannins, and chemical compounds that can stain your choppers. Of course, not all stains are created equal, and some people’s teeth are less susceptible to these discolorations. Either way, here are some additional foods and beverages that you can put on your blacklist:

• Berries and berry-based fruit juices
• Dark teas
• Tomato-based juices
• Energy drinks
• Soy sauce
• Balsamic vinegar
• Beetroot
• Curry
• Sweets and candy 
• Tobacco

Lastly, putting foods and beverages on your blacklist doesn’t mean you should avoid them forever. Limiting your consumption of certain foods and liquids, practicing proper and frequent dental hygiene, and regularly scheduling cleanings should keep your teeth looking white and healthy. 

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