How Can Foods and Drinks Stain Your Teeth?

Are your once white teeth starting to look yellow? Do stubborn stains cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile? You’re not alone. In fact, a recent survey found that a whopping 80% of American adults want whiter teeth! While professional teeth whitening in Ft. Worth can certainly help, avoiding foods and beverages that are known for discoloring your enamel is equally as important. With this in mind, read on for the top culprits of stained teeth and prevention tactics to start today.

Understanding Tannins (& How They Impact Your Enamel)

To understand how your diet results in stained teeth, it is important to first look at tannins and how they impact your enamel. Since the enamel is naturally porous, tannins (organic compounds responsible for the color and bitterness of foods and beverages) can stick to the small cracks or ridges. Over time, this results in permanent discoloration and stubborn stains that can cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile.

Top Foods and Drinks That Cause Teeth Stains

Coffee and soda are both known for their stain-causing properties. However, they are by no means the only culprits of discoloration. To help keep your teeth pearly white, do your best to limit or avoid the below items:

• Candy and sweets
• Citrus fruits
• Teas
• Berries
• Red wine
• Tomato sauce
• Curry
• Balsamic Vinegar

6 Prevention Tactics to Start Today

Limiting your consumption of the above foods and drinks can do wonders for the brightness of your smile. However, to keep your teeth in pristine condition for years to come, it is important to also implement the following best practices:

• Brush your teeth twice a day.
• Floss daily.
• Use mouthwash regularly.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a vitamin-rich diet.
• Visit your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning.

If unsightly stains are beginning to surface, it is important not to get discouraged. Instead, do your best to limit stain-causing foods and beverages and implement a solid oral hygiene routine. If the discoloration persists, talk to your dentist about teeth whitening treatments to brighten your smile in record time!

About the Author

Since completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Dental School at San Antonio Health Science Center in 1979, Dr. Terry L. Drennan has helped countless patients achieve radiant smiles. Over three decades later, he continues to use his genuine passion for dentistry, patient-centered philosophy of care, and custom treatment plans to meet each person’s smile goals. If you are looking for a cosmetic dentist in Ft. Worth, visit his website or give him a call at 817-732-5522.