The “White Diet” After Whitening: 7 Foods and Drinks to Avoid for the First 48 Hours

December 3, 2025

Are you excited about your bright new smile after whitening? The first 48 hours are crucial to safeguarding it for long-term brightness. Immediately after teeth whitening, your teeth are more susceptible to stains since the teeth have become temporarily more porous. Following the right post-whitening care routine means you will be able to enjoy your radiant smile longer.

In this blog, we’ll explore in detail the “White Diet” and show the foods and drinks you should avoid immediately after whitening.

What is the “White Diet”?

The “White Diet” refers to a specific eating and drinking plan followed immediately after teeth whitening. This is done to avoid stains and discoloration when your teeth are still sensitive and porous.

Immediately after teeth whitening in St. Louis, your teeth are more vulnerable to the absorption of pigmentation from food and drinks, undoing the whitening action. You will protect your smile and allow the whitening treatment to set properly by avoiding highly pigmented or acidic foods and drinks for 48 hours.

7 Foods and Drinks to Avoid for the First 48 Hours

1. Coffee

Coffee is one drink in particular that can stain teeth rather easily, especially after whitening. These dark pigments will latch on quickly to the porous surface of your teeth and leave you with stains that are difficult to remove.

The acidity in coffee also causes enamel wear, making it more likely for stains to settle in.

2. Red Wine

Red wine is highly concentrated with tannins, which have gained a bad reputation for causing teeth discoloration. Dark pigments in the red wine seep into your enamel and may cause stains, undoing the whitening process.

It is advisable to avoid the consumption of red wine for at least 48 hours after your treatment.

3. Berries

Berries like blueberries, blackberries, and cherries taste great, but their deep, rich colors can cause stains. These types of fruits have natural pigments, which can seep into the porous enamel of recently whitened teeth.

Opt for lighter fruits like bananas or pears instead.

4. Tomato-Based Sauces

Acidic and strongly colored sauces, like marinara, are made from tomatoes. The acidity in them may further agitate the sensitive teeth, while the pigments can cause staining.

Such dishes are better to be avoided for the first two days after teeth whitening in St. Louis.

5. Soy sauce

Another food that could stain a freshly whitened tooth is soy sauce due to its acidity and dark color. Acidic in nature and filled with dark pigments that easily cling to the enamel, soy sauce can cause sensitivity.

6. Tea

While tea may seem like an innocuous alternative to coffee, it can also stain teeth. In fact, black tea contains tannins that, over time, will eventually discolor teeth.

Vibrantly colored herbal teas should also be avoided in the first 48 hours after whitening.

7. Colored Sports Drinks

Most sports drinks come in bright colors and are filled with artificial coloring and acid. These will easily stain your teeth, especially when they are more porous after whitening.

Instead, choose water or a clear drink that won’t affect your smile.

Tips for Post-Whitening Care

To keep your teeth whiter for a longer period after whitening, drink plenty of water to help rinse out the food particles that can cause discoloration in your teeth. Stick with light-colored foods and drinks like white rice, plain chicken, and milk that will not damage your freshly whitened teeth.

Highly acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, should also be avoided, as they can further agitate sensitive teeth and create discomfort.

Careful attention immediately after teeth whitening is required to maintain your brighter smile. Keeping to the “White Diet” for the first 48 hours will prevent staining of your smile and maintain the whitening treatment effect.

If you have further questions or need additional guidance, don’t hesitate to consult with our dental office. Your radiant smile is worth the extra care!