Over the years, you’ll notice your teeth turning a few shades darker. Tooth discoloration is a natural part of the aging process, but there are also several other factors that can impact the severity of the change. Among the biggest influencers to affect the color of your teeth are the foods and drinks you consume. Here are 5 foods you should avoid to keep your teeth bright. If your smile has already lost its luster, you can turn back the hands of time with teeth whitening.
Foods to Avoid for Brighter Teeth
Your enamel naturally thins as you age, which causes more of your yellowish dentin to show. This makes your teeth appear darker as the years pass. Not to mention, genetics also plays a role in the rate of discoloration. Although you can’t stop changes caused by aging or your genetic makeup, you can control stains caused by the foods and drinks you consume, such as:
- Citrus
Nothing is better than a cool glass of orange juice. Although oranges and other citrus fruits are loaded with calcium and other vital nutrients, they are also acidic. They can slowly erode your enamel, increasing your risk of tooth sensitivity and cavities, but they will also make your dentin more visible over time, making your teeth look darker.
- Coffee
If can be difficult to get out of bed in the morning without knowing a warm cup of coffee is waiting for you. Unfortunately, coffee is a leading cause of tooth discoloration. If you can’t skip your morning cup of coffee, you can help prevent stains by drinking through a straw or rinsing your mouth with water afterward.
- Berries
Dark berries are great sources of antioxidants to help you stay healthy. While blueberries and blackberries are beneficial, they are known to cause stains. It’s best to limit your consumption of berries to maintain a bright smile.
- Pasta Sauce
Tomatoes are dark in color and acidic, which creates the perfect recipe for tooth discoloration. They erode your enamel while also allowing their dark pigmentation to seep into the pores of your teeth. It’s best to consume any tomato products in moderation.
- Wine
You’ve probably heard red wine can stain your teeth, but did you know white wine can be equally damaging? Both are acidic and can erode your enamel. They can also make your teeth more susceptible to other foods and drinks known to cause stains, like tea.
Enjoy a Bright Smile
If your smile has lost its luster, you can get your teeth several shades brighter with the help of your dentist. You can get the results you want at-home or in-office with a professional whitening treatment.
About Dr. Makadia
Dr. Makadia strives to create healthy, beautiful smiles that last. Besides general dentistry, he also specializes in cosmetic services, like teeth whitening. He can help you restore a beautiful smile using a highly concentrated whitening treatment. If you’re ready to reveal a brighter smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.