How Can Foods and Beverages Stain Your Teeth?

Have you noticed that your teeth become stained over the years? Discoloration is a natural part of getting older, but there are certain things that can cause it to progress faster. For instance, foods and beverages, like berries and wine, are known for staining if you consume them often. Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about how different substances can stain your teeth and which whitening options are out there to reverse this.

Why Do Some Foods Stain Teeth?

The thing that staining foods and drinks have in common is an ingredient known as “tannins.” Tannins are a group of organic compounds that are responsible for giving foods and beverages a dark color and bitterness. The outermost part of the tooth, known as the protective enamel, defends the inner, most sensitive parts of the tooth from sensitivity and infection. However, the enamel is porous and eventually absorbs these substances, like sugar, bacteria, and tannins. Some pigmented foods, like wine and cherries, have a substance called chromogen which reacts with tannins and causes a more intense color. Ultimately, you could end up with tooth discoloration.

What Foods and Beverages Stain Teeth?

There are numerous foods and beverages that can cause staining over time. Here are a few common ones:

• Coffee: A lot of us enjoy a morning brew, but it is known to stain tooth enamel over time. It alters the pH balance in your mouth and makes your teeth more vulnerable to staining.
• Tea: Many different black, green, and herbal teas contain tannins, therefore naturally staining your teeth over time.
• Berries: Even though they are healthy fruits, they are known to stain your dental enamel. Try consuming them in a smoothie with a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
• Red wine: After a long week of hard work, many like to wind down with a glass of wine. However, wine contains tannins just like tea and coffee as well as acids that affect your oral pH.
• Curry: This dish often contains a high turmeric content. This produces yellow stains over time.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Fortunately, you don’t need to put up with stubborn stains or discoloration. Instead, ask your dentist about at-home teeth whitening. During this treatment, you will use a whitening tray each day that is stronger than anything you can find in stores. Each application usually lasts less than two minutes, and you can complete it in your own time. You will notice a dramatic difference in just about two weeks!

You don’t need to settle for stains. By being wary of the foods and drinks that you consume and asking your dentist about professional teeth whitening, you can reduce discoloration going forward!

About the Author

Dr. James M. Peery, Jr is an experienced dentist who has been practicing for over four decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Medical College of Virginia and is a former President of the Lynchburg Dental Society. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Society and the local Rotary Club. For more information on teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment at his office in Lynchburg, visit his website or call (434) 847-5331.