After teeth whitening
Detailed post-procedure recommendations after professional teeth whitening.
Patient guide
These are general recommendations after teeth whitening. Individual instructions from your doctor always take priority.
Key points
- Do not eat or drink staining beverages for the first 2–3 hours.
- Follow a “white diet” for 48 hours: avoid coffee, tea, wine, berries, and sauces.
- Temporary tooth and gum sensitivity is possible.
- Do not smoke for at least 24–48 hours.
- Brush with a soft toothbrush and use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if needed.
- If your doctor prescribed a gel or remineralizing paste, use it as directed.
- Contact the clinic if you experience significant pain or gum irritation.
Step-by-step recovery plan
First 2–3 hours
- Do not eat or drink staining beverages.
- Do not smoke.
First 24–48 hours
- Follow a “white diet.”
- Avoid very hot or very cold foods.
- Tooth sensitivity may occur.
Days 3–7
- Sensitivity usually decreases.
- You may gradually return to your normal diet.
- Continue regular oral hygiene twice a day.
After whitening, enamel is temporarily more susceptible to staining. This is normal and usually resolves within 1–2 days.
What you can and cannot do
| CAN DO | SHOULD NOT DO |
|---|---|
| Drink water in small sips | Drink coffee, tea, or red wine during the first 48 hours |
| Eat light-colored, non-staining foods | Eat strongly staining foods for 48 hours |
| Brush with a soft toothbrush | Brush aggressively or irritate the gums |
| Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if needed | Smoke during the first 24–48 hours |
| Apply remineralizing gel if prescribed | Use whitening toothpaste during the first days |
The longevity of the result depends on proper care. Follow the “white diet” for 48 hours and avoid smoking.
Normal reactions after whitening
Sensitivity
Short-term sensitivity to cold or hot may occur for 1–3 days.
Gum irritation
Mild gum irritation may occur due to contact with the whitening gel and usually resolves quickly.
Even shade
The final tooth shade stabilizes within 1–2 days.
When to contact your doctor urgently
Contact your doctor as soon as possible if:
- severe pain lasts longer than 48 hours
- there is significant gum irritation or ulceration
- body temperature rises above 38 °C
- noticeable swelling appears
Frequently asked questions
2–3 hours after the procedure. During the first 48 hours, choose non-staining foods.
After whitening, enamel becomes temporarily more sensitive. This usually resolves within 1–3 days.
It’s best to avoid coffee for 48 hours to allow the color to stabilize.
Recommended products
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Use as a course if you experience discomfort.
Remineralizing gel
Apply as directed by your doctor to reduce sensitivity.
If you received individual recommendations for home whitening or color maintenance, please follow them.
