If you enjoy waking up to your go-to mug of coffee or tea but don’t enjoy the tooth-staining effects that come with it, we’re here to tell you how to balance your consumption of drinks and foods that stain teeth and oral hygiene tips to get the radiant smile you deserve.
What causes tooth stains?
Chemical compounds known as chromogens are notorious for giving many foods and drinks their strong colour. Many foods might come to mind. You might wonder, ‘does chocolate stain teeth?’ ‘Can turmeric stain teeth? Or berries?’ While these vibrant colours look appealing on a plate or swirling around your glass, these compounds can still stain your teeth. Tannins in foods and drinks can also cause staining, while acids can wear down your teeth. Knowing drinks and foods that stain teeth are high in these substances can help you take steps to manage your consumption.
Common culprits for teeth stain
Different foods and drinks cause different types of teeth stains, but that doesn’t mean you have to cull these favourites from your diet. After all, some drinks and foods that stain teeth are still healthy additions to your diet. But, if you’re concerned about teeth staining, minimising some of the following foods and beverages where possible will help your teeth maintain their bright gleam for longer:
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Coffee and tea
Many of us kickstart our day with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. There’s no better feeling than inhaling the delicious goodness from your mug as you sip and slowly savour the taste, preparing for what the rest of the day has in store. However, you might ask yourself, “Does coffee make your teeth yellow?” or “Does green tea stain teeth?” Unfortunately, yes, these beloved beverages are notorious for staining teeth.
Both beverages contain chromogens — pigmented molecules that can build up on your tooth enamel, causing tooth stains. The acidity of these beverages can also contribute to enamel erosion, making the underlying dentin more visible and enhancing the appearance of yellowing.
Luckily, there’s no need to give up your morning ritual since adding milk to your tea or coffee can help reduce acidity. You can also limit your daily coffee intake or drink water afterwards to wash away particles.
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Red wine
Whether it’s a cosy night after a long work day, a celebratory toast with your loved ones or a divine pairing with a succulent steak or charcuterie board, a crisp glass of red wine is the ideal companion. Unfortunately, the deep hues in red wine can leave lasting stains on your teeth, so you should add red wine to your list of drinks and foods that stain teeth.
Taking small sips of your wine and indulging in cheese with dips and crunchy veggies in between can help neutralise acids and stimulate your saliva production to help keep your teeth as clean as possible. Savour the complexity of your favourite reds without compromising your dental health.
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Berries
While berries are nature’s candy, they can also threaten your enamel. The vibrant colours of berries indicate the presence of pigments that may stain your teeth. Enjoy your favourite berries as part of a charcuterie board — calcium-rich cheeses can help neutralise acids and create a protective layer on your teeth. And if it’s a berry-licious smoothie, use a straw to help minimise direct contact with your teeth.
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Coke and other soft drinks
We all enjoy the occasional soft drink, especially with a juicy burger and chips. But does Coke stain your teeth? Carbonated beverages are common culprits in staining and enamel erosion. Use a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth, and rinse your mouth or drink water afterwards to help neutralise acids and wash away leftover pigments.
The overall impact of tooth staining on your dental health
Beyond aesthetics, teeth stains can affect your overall dental health. Stains indicate enamel erosion, which can pave the way for cavities and gum disease. At No Gaps Dental, our dental staff addresses stains right away for cosmetic reasons and to protect your oral well-being.
Preventive measures against types of teeth stains
There are plenty of ways you can protect your smile from different types of teeth stains:
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Regular brushing and flossing
Maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene routine is your first line of defence against teeth stains. Brush your teeth at least twice and floss daily to remove surface stains and prevent plaque buildup. Read our blog on the best toothpaste for teeth whitening for more advice.
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Professional dental cleanings
While regular brushing and flossing is a must, it doesn’t have the same effect as a professional clean. Our experienced dental professionals use advanced techniques to remove stubborn stains and ensure your teeth remain in optimal condition.
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Moderation and rinsing
Enjoying stain-inducing foods and drinks in moderation is key. Rinse your mouth with water after consumption to minimise the impact of pigments and acids before they have a chance to settle.
Get ahead of tooth discolouration with the help of No Gaps Dental
Maintaining a radiant smile while enjoying your favourite foods and drinks is possible with the help of our dental team at No Gaps Dental by your side. From tailored oral hygiene plans to professional treatments, we prioritise your unique needs, ensuring your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come. Book a consultation at your local clinic for your dental check-up or a professional teeth whitening treatment to brighten your smile. If you have any questions, contact our team, who would gladly assist.