Foods That Support a Brighter Smile After Teeth Whitening

January 7, 2026

Woman with white teeth getting strawberries

Stains in smiles are something that many people want to get rid of. They deserve to feel confident after all, so they head to their dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment. You might’ve also, and now you have a grin that you feel better in. However, it’s only understandable that you want your results to last! Eating the right foods can make a difference, so here’s what you should get plenty of.

Which Foods Should I Eat After a Teeth Whitening Treatment?

When talking about food and teeth whitening, you likely have seen countless things about what you should avoid. Coffee, red wine, sauces, and dark-colored berries are some that can lead to discoloration if you aren’t careful, but some options can naturally brighten your grin and preserve your results. These are just some you can have:

  • Yogurt, milk, and cheese all contain lactic acid. This is found in many dairy products, but it can protect you from decay. In fact, many researchers believe that the proteins in these items may be able to bind to teeth and prevent attacks from harmful acid.
  • Strawberries may fall into the “dark-colored berries” category, but they actually contain malic acid. This is an enzyme that can naturally make your smile brighter.
  • Apples, celery, and carrots are healthy fruits and vegetables that increase saliva production in your mouth, which helps wash away staining particles. The crunchy texture can also scrub your teeth, cleaning them a bit.
  • Pineapples and oranges are similar to the bullet point above as they make your mouth watery, but don’t use them directly on your enamel. The acidity in them can be harmful when it lingers for too long.

What Else Can I Do to Preserve My Whitening Results?

While your diet comes into play in making sure your whitening results last, it’s not the only thing you can keep up with. You should also be brushing and flossing twice every day. Doing them after eating is even better, as you can reduce your risk of discoloration. Break bad habits like smoking or using tobacco, as they can lead to stains as well.

By visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, you can also make sure your smile is in great shape. You can get more personalized advice about your oral habits and hygiene that help it be the best it can be. Better yet, you can get touch-ups as needed, letting your white grin look its best for a longer time. 

About the Author

Dr. Shane Smith earned his dental degree from the Tennessee Health Science Center. He is dedicated to the Jonesboro community, taking hundreds of hours of continuing education to give you the best care possible. Dr. Smith is proud to offer professional teeth whitening, whether in-office or a take-home kit, helping you get to the brighter grin you dream of. If you have any questions about this service, schedule an appointment or call his office at (870) 932-2644.