Keep Your Smile Bright – Avoid Foods That Stain Your Teeth

Everyone wants a white, bright smile. Although there are ways to go about achieving this, such as having your dentist perform a whitening procedure, you should also consider the causes of why your teeth discolored in the first place. There are certain foods and beverages that will stain your teeth.

• Tea – The health benefits of tea are widely known. Green tea can even help eliminate bad breath. However dark teas, including black teas, can stain your teeth. Other types of tea, such as white teas, can wear away at the enamel of your teeth. If drinking tea, you should do so in moderation.
• Sauces – Sauces that are rich in color, such as soy, curry, and tomato, can cause staining of your teeth. If you’re worried about keeping your teeth white, switch to light-colored or cream-based sauces, such as alfredo.
• Fruits – Your favorite fruits, and any foods made from them, can be staining your teeth. Darker, vibrant fruits are most likely to cause staining. These can include blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and pomegranates. However, don’t think you’re in the clear by eating lighter fruits. These are typically more acidic, and can weaken your enamel, which will make your teeth more susceptible to staining.
• Sugary Snacks – Candy and other sweets may be staining your teeth. If they’re staining your tongue, they are likely staining your teeth as well.
• Certain Beverages – Red wine is a known culprit for teeth staining. White wine is also very acidic and can wear down your teeth enamel. Sports drink that are high in sugar can erode your enamel. The same goes for soft drinks, which will stain your teeth while also aggressively eating away at your teeth’s enamel.

Avoid Staining

After reading that list, it may seem as though everything causes stains on your teeth! If you are going to indulge, you should do so in moderation. Obviously, some of the culprits, such as tea and fruits, are known to be especially good for you otherwise. When consuming beverages, try doing so through a straw. This will reduce the contact that the beverage has with your teeth. Additionally, you should try to swallow as soon as possible, without choking. This will reduce the contact that the food and beverages have with your teeth.

Most important of all, you should rinse your mouth immediately after consuming something that can stain your teeth. If you’ve consumed anything acidic, try not to brush for at least an hour afterwards. Brushing immediately after consumption can wear away at your enamel.