For those interested in maintaining their pearly whites, it’s important to pay attention to the food that’s being consumed because there are some healthy foods that stain the teeth if not eaten in moderation. Although yellow teeth don’t necessarily mean they’re unhealthy, a brighter smile is inviting and welcoming, and can even add to an individual’s self-esteem.

As individuals age, it’s natural to experience teeth discoloration, but there are some foods that speed up the process. Foods and beverages that are high in acidity, contain lots of sugar, and are darker in color are more likely to stain the teeth. Because enamel contains tiny pores, the sugar, acid, and pigmentation from those foods and beverages soaks into the enamel and eventually weakens it until the dentin layer is exposed, which has a more yellow color.  

More specific foods and drinks that are known to stain the teeth are:

• Dark Beverages – Any beverage with a dark pigment that contains lots of sugar and acid will more than likely stain the teeth if overconsumed. These beverages include coffee, tea, soda, and red wine. The best way to consume these drinks is through a straw, which decreases direct contact with the teeth.
• Berries – Although berries are filled with antioxidants, the dark pigmentation sinks into the enamel and eventually causes discoloration.
• Tomatoes – Any type of tomato product contains a lot of acid and dark pigmentation. The high acidity level, combined with the red coloration, sticks to the teeth and ultimately leads to staining. These products include pasta sauce, tomato juice, ketchup, and more.
• Other foods that could lead to staining are soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, curries, and beetroot.

At McBride Dental, we offer teeth whitening services to help those who want to safely and efficiently brighten up their smiles.

Is it Possible to Avoid Staining and Still Eat these Foods?

Because it’s not necessarily simple to avoid the foods and drinks mentioned above, the best way to help slow down the discoloration process is to drink water after consuming them. Maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen is also essential to maintaining pearly whites. It’s recommended for individuals to brush their teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice daily for two minutes. Individuals should also floss at least once daily to remove any excess food and bacteria that could buildup overtime if left unattended.

San Diego Teeth Whitening

At McBride Dental, we offer a variety of services for our patients to help them maintain a beautiful, bright smile that they can be proud of. These services include teeth whitening, one-day dental veneers, composite dental fillings, and MTM clear aligner. Our number one mission is to help our patients maintain strong, healthy teeth while also enhancing their smile. We recommend that our patients visit us at least twice per year so that we can examine, prevent, and even treat any oral complications. If you’re located in the San Diego area and are interested in any of the services mentioned above, call us at 760-471-1003 to schedule an appointment with us today.