Have you ever wondered if what you eat and drink is discoloring your smile? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans seek cosmetic dentistry treatments, like teeth whitening, to counteract the effects of foods and beverages that cause stains on teeth.
Are you one of the nearly 20% of Americans seeking professional teeth whitening treatments? If so, explore your options with the team at Lakewood Dental Group. Drs. Shaun Sigurdson and Mihir Patel can help you get rid of stains on teeth for years to come! Contact our Dallas, TX, dentists at (214) 827-1885 to request your teeth-whitening consultation now.
In today’s post, we explore 20 beverages and foodstuffs that cause stains on teeth. Knowing which of your favorite treats are responsible for discoloration is key to limiting your exposure and keeping your smile bright.
1. Coffee
Coffee is notorious for causing stains on teeth due to its high concentration of tannins, acidic compounds found naturally in plants.
Tannins can bind to the proteins in tooth enamel, causing pigments from dark-colored coffee to adhere more easily.
Regular consumption of coffee can lead to gradual discoloration of teeth over time, especially if proper dental hygiene practices are not followed.
2. Tea
Both black and green teas contain tannins, which are polyphenolic compounds that can bind to tooth enamel and contribute to staining. Black tea, in particular, has a higher concentration of tannins compared to green tea, making it more likely to cause stains.
The chromogens present in tea, which are responsible for its color, can also adhere to tooth enamel, especially when consumed frequently or in large quantities.
3. Red Wine
Red wine contains a combination of acidic compounds and chromogens, which are pigmented molecules that can adhere to tooth enamel. The effect is discoloration and enamel erosion over time.
Furthermore, the dark color of red wine compounds the staining effect, especially if consumed regularly or if the wine is allowed to linger in the mouth before swallowing.
4. Cola
Cola beverages are highly acidic and often contain artificial coloring agents, both of which can contribute to stains on teeth.
The acidity of cola can erode tooth enamel, making it more porous and prone to absorbing pigmented compounds.
Additionally, the caramel coloring used in many colas can adhere to tooth surfaces, leading to discoloration over time, especially with frequent consumption.
5. Fruit Juices
Dark-colored fruit juices (especially dark ones like grape or cranberry) contain natural pigments that can adhere to tooth enamel and cause staining. The acidity of fruit juices can also weaken tooth enamel, making it more vulnerable to staining from pigmented compounds.
6. Tomato-Based Sauces
The acidity of tomato-based sauces can weaken tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to staining from pigmented compounds.
Additionally, the deep red color of these sauces can adhere to tooth surfaces, especially if dental hygiene (like brushing and flossing) is delayed for extended periods.
7. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is rich in color and contains pigmented compounds that can bind to tooth enamel, leading to staining over time. The high sodium content in soy sauce can also contribute to tooth discoloration by promoting dehydration and reducing saliva production, which helps to naturally cleanse the teeth and neutralize acids.
8. Balsamic Vinegar
The high acidity of balsamic vinegar can weaken tooth enamel, causing stains on teeth from pigmented composites. Be sure to rinse the mouth well after consuming highly-acidic, highly-pigmented foods.
9. Blueberries and Blackberries
Blueberries and blackberries contain color compounds called anthocyanins, which give them their deep blue color. These anthocyanins can bond to tooth enamel and cause staining with frequent consumption.
These berries are also fairly acidic, compounding the staining effects of anthocyanins.
10. Pomegranate
The deep red color of pomegranate seeds and juice can stick to tooth surfaces while the acidity can strip teeth of their enamel. This is especially true if consumed frequently or without rinsing the mouth after consumption.
11. Beets
Similar to pomegranates, the deep crimson color of beets can stick to dental surfaces, causing long-term stains on teeth. Limit consumption of beets or rinse the mouth after munching on these vibrant root veggies.
12. Curry
Many curies contain spices like turmeric, which is highly pigmented. The deep yellow color of turmeric can cause discoloration. But that’s not all – many other spices and ingredients in curries contain pigments or acids that make teeth more likely to discolor over time.
13. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains tannins and color compounds that can weaken and stain tooth enamel. Try sipping water after every bit of dark chocolate to rinse the mouth and prevent stains.
14. Popsicles
Popsicles often contain artificial colors and sour components that can cling to and erode dental enamel, causing weak and stained teeth. With summer right around the corner, ditch the artificially-colored popsicles for healthier, smile-friendly alternatives, like real fruit sorbets.
15. Pigmented Hard Candies
Much like popsicles, hard candies often contain artificial colors and acidic ingredients. These components can erode enamel and contribute to stains on teeth, especially because these goodies sit in the mouth for extended periods.
16. Energy Drinks
The acidity ingredients found in many energy drinks can weaken tooth enamel, making it more likely to develop stains from pigmented ingredients. Additionally, the sugars and artificial colors in energy drinks attach to the surfaces of teeth and contribute to discoloration, particularly with daily consumption.
17. Barbecue Sauce
Who doesn’t love a good, rich barbecue sauce? But, unfortunately, these delicious sauces contain dark pigments and acidic substances that can cling to tooth enamel and cause staining.
18. Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is inky in color and often contains sugars and soy sauce, which can contribute to stains on teeth. While this may be a pantry staple, it is best to limit consumption and conduct proper oral hygiene after eating.
19. Ketchup
What’s a French fry without some ketchup? Well, unfortunately, ketchup contains acidic elements and natural pigments that can stick to tooth enamel and cause staining.
20. Mustard
Mustard, especially dark varieties, contains deep yellow or brown colors. These pigments can stick to dental surfaces, while the acidity of mustard can weaken tooth enamel, making teeth more likely to develop stains with repeated exposure.
Stains on teeth? Lakewood Dental Group can help!
Pigments, acids, and other compounds contribute to stains on teeth greatly. But you can counteract the effects of stain-causing foods and beverages by seeking professional whitening treatments at Lakewood Dental Group. Call our dentists in Dallas, TX, at (214) 827-1885 or click here to request your teeth-whitening consultation now!
