Foods that are high in tannins are more likely to stain teeth because they cause damage to your enamel, which often results in long-term discoloration. Foods that are high in tannins include sauces, dark or sugary beverages, acidic foods, dark fruits, and more. While you can still enjoy these items in moderation, it’s best to limit your consumption if you are noticing any discoloration of the teeth. As a general rule, it’s better to indulge in lighter colored beverages and foods, which may help keep your teeth sparkly white.
What are some foods and drinks that will stain my teeth?
- Coffee & Tea: While the dark, rich color of coffee has been known to stain teeth, some brews of darker tea may even cause more stains than coffee.
- Wine: If a drink can stain your clothes, it can also stain your teeth. Red wine is known to discolor teeth, but white wine, which is even more acidic, can also stain your teeth.
- Fruits & Berries: Dark-colored fruits and berries such as blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and pomegranates tend to stain your teeth.
- Sauces & Curries: Deep-colored, rich sauces such as soy sauce, tomato-based sauces, and curry have the tendency to also cause stains.
- Balsamic Vinegar: The dark coloring and sticky consistency of balsamic vinegar is likely to darken your teeth.
- Beetroot: While beets may be a colorful addition to any salad, dish, or juice, this colorful effect also applies to your teeth.
- Candy: If the coloring used in candy changes the color of your tongue, it will likely also do so to your teeth.
Treating Stained Teeth
It’s very common for teeth to become discolored, whether due to age, genetics, or diet. Fortunately, the discoloration does not have to be permanent. Here at Wachtel Dentistry in Geneseo, we offer advanced teeth whitening treatments with visible results. While teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry is a safe and efficient option for stained teeth, it’s also important to look at preventative measures to begin with.
Take Preventative Measures
Brushing and flossing regularly is one of the best ways to keep your teeth as white as possible. You should brush and floss every morning and every night, and especially after consuming the food and drinks mentioned above that are prone to staining.
Consult With a Professional
If your teeth are more yellow than you’d like, consider opting for a tooth whitening toothpaste. While some studies support that at-home whitening kits may be effective, it’s in your best interest to consult a trained dentist first. If you have any cavities or other issues, you will want to hold off on any whitening treatments. Additionally, improper application of teeth whitening kits can cause unnecessary gum irritation or damage to the enamel. Your dentist will be able to give you an exam and offer advice on what’s best for you.
Schedule an Appointment With Your Geneseo Dentist
If standard tooth whitening toothpaste hasn’t been able to brighten your teeth as much as you’d hoped, consider a professional teeth whitening service from our Geneseo dental team at Wachtel Dentistry.
Contact our office or schedule an appointment online to visit our office in Henry County today! We look forward to helping you make your smile extra bright.