What we eat and drink daily directly affects the colour of our teeth. It’s common knowledge that more intense coloured beverages are likely to stain teeth, such as black coffee and red wine, but even lighter-coloured drinks can promote staining. The chromogens in food and beverages cause stains – intensely pigmented molecules that adhere to tooth enamel. Foods that are higher in acid cause discoloration of teeth by breaking down tooth enamel and increasing the effect of chromogens. Since our consumption significantly impacts our pearly whites, we present the Top Ten culprits that stain teeth.
- Black Coffee: Combat the staining effect from the tannins and acidity by adding milk and cream.
- Berries: Both dark-coloured berries, such as blueberries and blackberries, and light-coloured berries cause stains as they contain high amounts of chromogens. It includes fruit juices, too, particularly cranberry juice.
- Wine: The tannins, acids, and chromogens cause red and white wine stains.
- Tomato Sauce: It is the acid and pigments that stain your teeth.
- Soy sauce: Great with sushi, but the deep-coloured sauce sticks to your teeth, causing stains.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Like soy sauce, it clings to your teeth.
- Tea: Would you believe black tea is worse than coffee? Switch to less staining teas such as herbal, white, and green.
- Soda Drinks: It is the acidity, sugars, and chromogens in carbonated beverages that promote staining, including light-coloured drinks.
- Sports Drinks: The high acidity softens the tooth enamel, leading to easier staining.
- Candy: Any sweets that change the colour of your tongue will stain your teeth due to the colouring agents.
We’re not saying to exclude these foods and beverages from your diet as some have proven health benefits. However, you may want to ease up on the quantities. To avoid staining your teeth with such produce, always sip water or chew sugarless gum after consuming. Another trick is to use a straw when drinking sodas and juices. Though not the best idea when it comes to wine and coffee. The best tip of all, brush your teeth properly, floss, and have professional dental cleanings twice a year to remove hardened tartar and stubborn stains. Staying away from tobacco products is probably a good idea too!
SEE ALSO: Dental Health and Tooth Discoloration
If you have teeth stains or you think your teeth have started showing discolouration affecting your confidence to smile, contact Dr Joy Dental Clinic at 80037569. Our expert team of dental specialists will help you restore your beautiful smile and provide the utmost dental health.
