Foods and Drinks That Stain the Teeth
Dr. Wayne Myles has helped so many patients in the Reston area with the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments. This includes teeth whitening, an effective way to bleach smiles affected by extrinsic dental stains. Extrinsic dental stains refers to tooth discoloration that originates at the surface layer of the teeth. This is the kind of dental stain most people are familiar with, and in addition to tobacco products, foods and beverages are common causes of various kinds of stains.
We'd like to go over a few foods and beverages that can leave your smile looking not as bright. As you're about to read with these substances below, if something can stain a white shirt, it can lead to the discoloration of your teeth.
Coffee
You may need it to start the day on the right foot, but over time, coffee will cause your teeth to appear yellowed and stained.
Tea
While tea is certainly not as dark as coffee, years and years of regular tea drinking is sure to affect the overall color of your smile.
Red Wine
Red wine has a number of health benefits when consumed in moderation, but it also has the unfortunate effect of staining your teeth.
Colas and Soft Drinks
While having a soda can be refreshing on a hot day or with a cheeseburger, those colas will lead your teeth to look not as bright or white.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are common in so many foods, from spaghetti sauce to a number of soups, but they can lead to your smile looking less bright over time.
Beets
Beets are healthy and they can taste great when prepared right, but that bright red/magenta coloring will leave its mark on your teeth over the years.
Berries
High in antioxidants and great with breakfast cereal, berries are good for you but can leave their marks on your teeth (especially blueberries and blackberries).
Carrots
Carrots are a fine source of fiber that are good for your eyes, but eaten over the years and your teeth won't be looking as white as they could be.
Curries
Sometimes nothing hits the spot like good Indian food, but that curry that's so tasty will lead to stains and discolorations.
Ways to Brighten and Whiten Your Smile
Many of the above foods are healthy, especially the fruits and vegetables listed. The best ways to get your smile looking its brightest and whitest again generally involve the following options:
- Brush and Floss After Every Meal - Brushing and flossing after every meal removes food and drink particles that can lead to stains.
- Use a Straw When Drinking Beverages - A straw bypasses the teeth when drinking a beverage, meaning reduced chance of staining.
- Teeth Whitening Treatment - Teeth whitening treatments will bleach stains away, making your smile bright again.
- Dental Bonding Treatment - Using tooth-colored bonding materials will help conceal major stains on your teeth.
- Porcelain Veneers Treatment - For severe stains, porcelain veneers can be used to block the discoloration from view.
The ideal cosmetic dentistry treatment for you can be discussed during a consultation at our practice.
Schedule a Consultation with Wayne Myles, DDS
To learn more about how you have have the brightest and whitest smile possible, it's important that you contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. Myles and his entire team look forward to your visit and helping you make the best choices with regard to your dental health and wellness.
