If you want whiter teeth, protection is key. There are lots of foods that can stain teeth over time. Check out this list below to familiarize yourself with the foods and drinks causing the most damage. Learn a few tips to protect your teeth immediately after and long-term when consuming teeth staining foods.
Tea and Coffee
Most people wake up, brush their teeth and grab their favorite morning beverage on the way to work. While this is a normal routine, you might want to reconsider the order of events. Leaving any staining substance on your teeth can cause stains. If you want to combat the stains that happen from coffee or tea, have your drink first and then be sure to brush before you leave the house. Tea, especially black tea, can be one of the biggest culprits of teeth staining, so plan ahead to combat stains.
Red and White Wine
Have you ever accidentally spilled wine on anything? It stains almost immediately. Although you can see the dark, bold color from red wine more easily, even white wine can stain your teeth. Wines are delicious but are highly acidic and should be had in moderation and care for your teeth. Give your mouth a quick rise after a glass of wine.
Citrus and Berries
Have you ever eaten some blueberries and checked your teeth in the mirror? You’ll definitely see the pigment right away. The general rule of thumb for teeth staining foods are usually the vibrancy and acid content. Fruits are highly acidic and often brightly colored. Regardless of the color, the acids are what you need to be wary of when it comes to protecting your teeth enamel and preventing stains.
Soft Drinks & Sport Drinks
Sodas and sports drinks are superbly refreshing, but they also contain acids and dyes weaken your teeth enamel, which can cause stains. Limiting your soft drink/soda intake can actually aid in weight loss! Plus, it’s better to drink water after a workout than a sports drink. Your teeth will thank you.
Sauces
They are tasty and rich, but sauces like soy, tomato and curry bases can cause stains. We don’t expect anyone to give up their bolognese, tomato soup, or best curries, but we do advise you to rinse after eating these stain causing sauces.
Candy and Sweets
Candies and sweets are hard to resist and obviously have a lot of sugar, which sets the state for weakened enamel and tooth decay. Not only do they cause cavities/tooth decay, they also can stain your teeth. If you eat them sparingly and make sure to brush shortly after consuming sweets, your teeth will be just fine. Lamb Family Dental also advises you to brush and floss after eating sugar. The sugars can sit between the teeth and quickly cause damage. Check out our post on “how sugar causes cavities for more information.”
Our takeaways on how to combat foods that stain your teeth: use a straw to limit the exposure your teeth have with staining substances. Cut back on sugar (this is a tough one) but so important. Sugar sitting on the teeth can cause damage quickly, especially to your kiddo’s developing teeth. Be sure to rinse shortly after consuming stain-causing foods. And last, brush and floss your teeth frequently!
