Foods to Avoid to Keep Teeth Whiter
Good dental hygiene plays an important role in keeping your smile white. However, you may also need to adjust your diet and avoid certain foods to keep your teeth whiter, longer. Certain foods have more stain-imparting compounds and high acid levels that make it easier for stains to sink into teeth.
Fruits and berries
Blackberries, pomegranates, cherries and blueberries have plenty of health benefits, but their bright or deep colors can seriously stain your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after enjoying fruit to reduce the acidity and combat the stains.
Wine
Wine is known for its heart-healthy potential, but it is also quite likely to leave your teeth looking dull and discolored. Enjoy responsibly and in a teeth-friendly manner by limiting yourself to just a glass or two a day and rinsing thoroughly after drinking.
Tea
Hot or cold teas are some of the most popular beverages around, but tea is known for its high concentration of tannins, which stain teeth. Use a straw to reduce the contact between the tea and your teeth, and rinse after drinking.
Coffee
Coffee is high in acidity, which erodes enamel and discolors your teeth. Avoid adding sugar to your coffee since this can significantly increase the damage, and rinse with water.
Brushing right after enjoying a stain-causing food or beverage will not only not remove the stains but may drive them even further into your teeth. Rinse with water whenever possible, and then wait half an hour before brushing with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
Contact our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist today to learn more or to schedule your teeth whitening consultation.