Melbourne is a food-lover’s paradise, with laneways full of espresso bars, dumpling joints, wine bars, and street-eats. But if you’ve just had your teeth whitened, you might be wondering how to enjoy it all without impacting your new pearly whites.
Here are some of our tips about what to do after your whitening treatment to help maintain that bright, fresh smile.
The First 48 Hours: Keep It White
After your in-chair whitening treatment your teeth are extra porous, that means they are more likely to absorb stains. That’s why we recommend sticking to a “white food diet” for the first 48 hours. It’s not forever, just a little reset for your smile.
Think:
- 🧀 Cheese
- 🥔 Potatoes
- 🍝 Plain pasta or rice
- 🐟 White fish or chicken
- 🥚 Eggs
- 🥛 Milk, yoghurt, and other dairy
- 🍌 Bananas, peeled apples, and pears
A good way to remember is avoid anything that could stain a white T-shirt! That includes but not limited to – red wine, curries, coffee, beetroot, turmeric, berries, tomato sauce and dark sauces (like soy).
Long-Term TLC: How to Help Keep Your Teeth Bright and White
Don’t worry, Melbourne’s best espresso isn’t off the menu forever! Once you’re past those first two days, you can gradually return to your regular foodie life – just with a few smile-friendly habits to keep things gleaming.
☕ Use a Straw
Love your iced latte or smoothie? Use a straw to limit contact between staining liquids and your enamel. It’s a simple switch that can help make a difference.
💧 Rinse with Water After Meals
After eating or drinking dark or acidic foods, rinse your mouth with water. It helps wash away pigments and acids before they can set in.
🍅 Limit Staining Foods
Some foods are notorious for dulling your sparkle. Try to enjoy these in moderation:
- Soy sauce
- Tomato-based dishes (like pasta sauce)
- Curries (especially those with turmeric)
- Balsamic vinegar
- Red wine and black tea
Something to think about: if it stains your napkin, it can stain your teeth!
🪥 Keep Up a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Keep brushing twice a day, floss daily, and schedule your regular cleanings. You’ve invested in your smile – treat it like the VIP it is.
We recommend Bio Min, a remineralising toothpaste (add Image) available to buy in studio or on (L&L link)
A Few Extra Urban Smile After Whitening Tips
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid enamel wear when brushing your teeth
- Avoid smoking or vaping, which are big culprits in staining
- Touch-up treatments every 6–12 months can help keep your smile looking it’s best all year-round
✨ Ready to book your whitening or need a top-up?
Book Online or pop into one of our five Melbourne studios.
Whitening is available to 18+, Whitening is not suitable if pregnant, breast feeding or have veneers and composite bonding.