How Acidic Foods Affect Whitening Treatments

Everyone wants a bright smile. However, various factors, such as food, medical history, and lifestyle habits, can make your teeth yellow and discolored. You might want to try teeth whitening treatments to improve the appearance of your smile.

Did you know that acidic foods can actually affect the outcome of a teeth whitening procedure? This is why it is important to understand how to protect your investments. To know more about teeth whitening and get the best outcome, visit a dental office in Pacific Beach, San Diego. They can help you take better care of your smile. 

The effect of acid on teeth. 

The effect of acidic foods on your teeth might be more important than you think. When you consume things like citrus fruits, soda, or certain juices, they can damage your enamel. Foods with a pH lower than 4.6 can thin down your enamel and make it less protective.

It is important to be even more careful if you have just had a teeth whitening treatment. These foods can make your teeth more likely to stain, which might undo the whitening results. Your dentist will provide a list of aftercare instructions. Make sure to follow that. 

Common acidic foods in San Diego’s diet. 

Some foods that people in San Diego have access to may be good for their overall health but not for their teeth. Citrus fruits, like the ones you might put in your smoothie bowls and breakfast plates, and tomatoes in sandwiches and tacos are common acidic foods you eat daily.

Even some drinks that you might think are healthy, such as sparkling water, are bad for your teeth. The carbonation in sparkling water raises the acid level, which can harm your enamel. Sports drinks, which are popular nowadays, are also very acidic and can cause tooth erosion.

The link between acidic foods and whitening. 

Professional teeth whitening is the most effective method of achieving a whiter smile. However, if you eat acidic foods after whitening, the treatment may not work as well. Acidic foods can temporarily soften your enamel and make your teeth more likely to stain again.

Teeth whitening products, like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, can also make your teeth sensitive for a short time. If you eat acidic foods while your teeth are sensitive, it can make the discomfort worse. This is why it is recommended to steer clear of acidic foods for some time. 

How you can protect your investment. 

When you have spent your time and money on teeth whitening procedures, you would certainly not want your silly mistakes to ruin that. Luckily, there are simple ways to keep your whitening results while still enjoying various delicacies. 

One easy tip for people who like to drink acidic beverages is to use a straw. A straw prevents the drink from touching your teeth and limits the amount of damage done. Also, after eating acidic foods, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Brushing too soon can harm your enamel, which is temporarily softened by the acid.

How changes in your diet can help. 

Instead of cutting out acidic foods entirely, you can protect your whitening results by making smarter dietary choices. When having acidic foods, try to eat them as part of a meal instead of on their own. This can help reduce the acid’s effects on your teeth.

Acidic foods and drinks can make your mouth acidic. Therefore, following an acidic item with a dairy item, like cheese or milk, can balance out the acids in your mouth. These simple steps can help you enjoy your favorite foods while keeping your teeth healthy.

If you are worried about your money going to waste after a whitening treatment, talking to a dentist can always help. Consult with an expert to clarify your doubts.