Everyone wants that bright, white smile that they see on their favorite Hollywood stars. Many believe that pricey whitening kits or professional bleaching treatments are the solution. Before you reach for your wallet, first consider some simple lifestyle changes that may have a dramatic impact on the brightness of your teeth. Some of the foods you consume everyday may cause gradual staining over time. These 5 foods that stain teeth should be consumed in small quantities if you’re looking for a smile that’s bright:
5 Foods That Stain Teeth
1) Black Coffee – Although this may seem like the only way to wake you up in the morning, drinking straight black coffee is a surefire way to diminish the brightness of your teeth. If ditching the coffee is simply just not an option, there are a few things you can do. By adding a splash of milk, you can not only keep your teeth from absorbing the dark color, but also enjoy the benefits of the calcium and Vitamin D that comes with the milk. As you sip, try to avoid the liquid coming into contact with your teeth. Some cups and mugs naturally allow for this.
2) Tea – You may think that drinking tea would be a better alternative than coffee to avoid stained teeth. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Dark teas such as Earl Grey and English breakfast tea can do just as much harm to your smile as coffee. Try sticking to lighter colored teas such as green tea, white tea, or herbal tea.
3) Tomato Sauce – The rich color that comes with a vibrant tomato or marinara sauce can also stain your teeth. The good news is if you eat an appetizer full of green veggies such as spinach or broccoli, the chances of staining your teeth become a lot less likely. The green vegetables serve as a protective film over your teeth so it becomes more difficult for foods to seep into your teeth’s grooves.
4) Blueberries – Although this superfood is packed with antioxidants, the dark blue skin of the fruit can stain your teeth. To get the benefits of the fruit without the side effects of stained teeth, make sure to swish some water around your mouth after you eat them.
5) Curry – This Indian spice is known for staining teeth yellow. Although it may not be the first that comes to mind when you think about foods that stain teeth, the intense yellow color of curry makes it hard to think otherwise. In order to avoid staining your teeth, make sure to thoroughly brush after consumption.
Teeth Whitening Tips
Remember, moderation is key when it comes to consuming foods that stain teeth. Sometimes cutting back just slightly can make a world of difference. There are also several natural and affordable teeth whitening methods that can give your smile the boost you’re looking for. Some of these include making a paste out of baking soda and lemon juice or strawberries as well as a coconut oil or hydrogen peroxide rinse. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth will also ensure that your smile is free of plaque and food particles. Having healthy gums also gives the impression of a whiter and brighter smile. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly! Call 248-541-1388 to schedule your appointment with Royal Oak dentist, Dr. Larry Duffield.