Beware the Foods that Stain Teeth
Every
dentist says the surest way to a healthier, brighter smile is through
proper oral care and routine dental visits. However, there are several
everyday foods and drinks that just by their basic structure work
against that endeavor when consumed in large amounts. Specifically,
they’re capable of discoloring teeth if you do not stay on top of your
daily dental routine. By no means should people stay away from their
favorite foods or drinks, but it’s good to remember that moderation,
properly rinsing the mouth, and brushing teeth after meals can
significantly help improve your smile and protect it from prolonged
staining.
Pasta Sauce
The tomatoes in pasta sauce are
capable of leaving teeth vulnerable to staining largely because of their
natural acidity, bright red hue, and tendency to cling to the teeth. In
addition to your typical dental routine, dining on darker vegetables
like spinach, broccoli, and kale beforehand can help create a protective
layer over the teeth. That layering film can ward off the tomatoes’
staining effect, so consider adding a side salad to your pasta entree.
Curry
While this spice is great for Indian
food and more exotic dishes, curry can also cause stains on the teeth.
Its deep pigment, like pasta sauce, can yellow teeth over time, and
given that high risk curry may be best in limited quantities. Even then,
if dining on curry-spiced foods, try mixing fresh fruits and vegetables
in like apples, carrots, celery, or cauliflower to fight staining.
Balsamic Vinegar
While a healthier salad dressing,
balsamic vinegar can still darken any pearly whites you worked hard on.
You certainly do not have to give up the lighter dressing, but beware
that it can stick to teeth and cause staining if not brushed away soon
after. Luckily, salad dressing is usually paired with foods that
naturally fight staining properties, such as lettuce or spinach.
Berries
There are numerous health benefits in
berries, including antioxidants, though there is also a risk of
staining. As with other foods, the deep hues in blueberries,
cranberries, or blackberries can discolor teeth whether eaten whole,
drunk as juice, or consumed as jam or jelly. The best way to prevent
staining if you cannot brush your teeth immediately is to drink water
and not let the juices linger. A glass of milk or hard cheese can also
help neutralize the effects of acids within berries.
Beverages
Many kinds of drinks--coffee, tea,
sodas, sports drinks, wines--can lead to staining. All colored teas,
even white, have been shown to erode enamel and stain teeth, as do
sports drinks. Light and dark sodas can also cause teeth discoloration
and even further staining effects in certain foods. Just as with teas,
wine both red and white can stain teeth--in fact white wine is more
acidic than red and causes even more staining in spite of the red’s
deeper hues. Rinsing the mouth with water and limiting intake with these
drinks--as well as with the above foods--can tremendously benefit
overall oral and bodily health and help you on your path to a brighter,
healthier smile.
If you're concerned with
staining, feel free to consult with your dentist. To save as much as 20
percent off your dental bills, sign up for our New Hampshire Individual Discount Dental Plan. For more information, please click here.
Copyright: rh2010 / 123RF Stock Photo
