Caring people commonly ask the dentist about teeth whitening. Perhaps they have noticed staining from the food or drinks they have consumed during the six month interval between dental cleanings. And sometimes the desire for whiter teeth is driven by media images of youthful people with very white teeth and this imaging rings true as the Oral Health Foundation reminds us that our teeth do become darken with aging. 

Whatever the drive for information, the fact is, in most matters of  dental health, dental care given at home is equally as important and complemented by the dental clinic. And you might be surprised to learn, according to WebMD, the outcome of our consumption choices are black and white.  For example, between drinking tea or coffee is hands down coffee for Snow White teeth or Black Tea for Kettle Black staining. In fact, black teas extensively stain and white tea tends to damage the tooth’s enamel which results in staining and destruction by the acidity.

If, on the other hand, you are looking towards sports drinks, think again! As a cosmetic dentist, I am often asked at Dr Teresa Wade DDS—Family Dentistry about different drinks. The bottom line comes down to the acid level in sports drinks or any drink. The more acidic the greater the concern for the enamel of your teeth. 

Water or milk are always a better choice! 

And, it’s no surprise the acid in combination with the sugar in cola carbonated drinks damages the enamel of teeth, especially the in between  areas that should be flossed. 

But, what about wine? Red wine stains the carpet, the clothing, the teeth. Blood Red wine is indeed very staining, however if you switch to white wine, well, it is more acidic which damages the tooth’s enamel.  

Food can bring the same staining dilemma for your teeth. Vividly colored sauces like tomato are more staining, whereas cream sauces are less  as they brush away easily.  Berries such as blackberries, blueberries, as well as cherries, whether fresh or in pies, do stain teeth. Lighter fruit like pears, white grapes, and such, are a bit more acidic but less staining. 

A neat trick for consuming drinks, known to be stain causing, simply use a straw and quickly swallow those drinks on to get it out of the mouth.

Remember, the smartest thing you can do is brush, floss, and waterpik your teeth. This will keep them help keep the teeth white, healthy and the gums pink, and free from swellng, bleeding gums, or edema, which is so unsightly. 

Here at our dental office we would love to help you smile as we help you with your dental care needs. Visit our web site at wadefamilydentistrytx.com or call Dr Jerry Wade and Dr Teresa Wade today at (432) 523-7782. Our office is a convenient location at 612 Hospital Drive Andrews, TX right beside Rita’s Cleaners and across the street from the Hospital. We hope to hear from you today.