Foods That Can Stain Teeth

July 31, 2020 12:57 am

Exposure to certain foods can gradually discolor your teeth because of their pigment or acid content. For example:

Citrus

Citrus is high in acid, which can slowly erode your enamel. As enamel is weakened, the yellow dentin underneath shows through and you can develop decay and cavities.

However, don’t avoid citrus. Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit are high in vitamin C, an essential nutrient for good overall health and oral health. Vitamin C helps your body regenerate and repair tissue. In the mouth, vitamin C helps prevent gum disease and loosening of your teeth.

Enjoy citrus fruits and citrus-based beverages, like orange juice, in moderation. And, when you do, pair with a glass of water to help wash away the acid and sugar.

Berries

Blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain dark pigment that can, over time, stain teeth.

But these fruits also contain essential nutrients, like potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. Plus, they are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from disease.

Continue to pair fresh berries with nutritious foods like salads, yogurt, and whole-grain pancakes, and a glass of water or milk to wash the pigment away.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and tomato-based foods like spaghetti sauce and tomato soup contain acid and rich red pigment.

Similar to our recommendation for citrus and berries, don’t avoid tomatoes in the name of a white smile. Tomatoes contain important nutrients for a healthy body and a healthy mouth, such as potassium, fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Wash the acid and pigment away with a glass of water or chew sugar-free gum for at least 20 minutes after consuming tomatoes.

How to Prevent Stains

Consume a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and products with calcium. Since they contain nutrients that promote a healthy mouth and body, we do not recommend avoiding citrus, berries, and tomatoes.

We do recommend avoiding stain-causing beverages like coffee and wine whenever possible. Drink water instead.

Teeth Whitening at Seastone Dental

Not satisfied with the look of your smile? If you’ve already got stains, it’s never too late to brighten your smile. Here at Seastone Dental, your cosmetic dentist in Summerville, SC, we are proud to offer both in-office teeth whitening and take-home whitening trays. Both whitening options deliver dramatic results.

Categorised in: Cosmetic Dentistry