Cosmetic dentistry is exploding in popularity. Everyone wants a perfect smile and bright white teeth. The most sought after cosmetic procedure is a teeth whitening system that will whiten a patient’s teeth by many shades. But, what if, instead of looking for a teeth whitening product, you were able to prevent your teeth from becoming stained in the first place?
One of the most common causes of tooth discoloration is the food and beverages that you consume. Dr. Sachs, whose office is in Rockford, IL, takes a look at some foods that will stain your teeth.
Beverages:
Any beverage that is darkly pigmented can stain your teeth. Though your tooth enamel is very hard and strong, it contains microscopic ridges that can trap dark pigments from these beverages. Additionally, cola is high in acid which can eat away at your enamel and expose your root dentin.
Any beverage that is high in acid can eat away at your enamel, expose your root dentin, and cause discoloration.
Food:
Anything that contains food coloring.
Processed foods that contain food coloring can leave your teeth stained. Popsicles, fruit juices, tomato sauce, candy, cereal, and gummies can all contain a good amount of food coloring.
The best thing to remember about foods, and if they will stain your teeth, is this:
“If the food or beverage will stain a white t-shirt, it will also stain my teeth.”
Dr. Sachs is certainly not calling for you to not eat foods or consume drinks that can cause discoloration. After all, you would not have much left to choose from.
However, knowing which foods cause discoloration is still important. The reason for this, is that you should try to brush your teeth ASAP after consuming foods you know will discolor your teeth.