While failing to brush or visit your dentist for regular teeth cleanings can lead to a yellow smile, the treats you consume on a daily basis play just as big of a role. According to Dr. Robert Petrtyl—Cincinnati, OH’s leading general dentist—beverages are one of the primary culprits of discoloration. Red wine, coffee, and tea can create dark stains that are tough to remove, and may require professional teeth whitening to disappear completely.

If you want to enjoy your favorite holiday drinks and maintain your bright smile, remember these five tips from Dr. Petrtyl:

• Use A Straw: To sip on a warm cup of hot chocolate without compromising the brightness of your smile, use a straw. Drinking from a straw allows liquid to move past your teeth without touching them, reducing the chances of unsightly stains.
• Brush Your Teeth: It’s essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day to maintain optimal dental health. However, if you consume beverages that tend to stain teeth, brush them again as soon as you finish.
• Rinse With Water: If you don’t have access to a toothbrush after consuming a cup of coffee, tea, or wine, rinse your mouth out with water. While it isn’t as effective as brushing, a quick rinse will remove residue left over from the beverage.
• Eat Fruits & Veggies: Munching on hard fruits or crisp vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery are an excellent way to prevent tooth stains after consuming certain drinks. Chewing these foods will help to clean your teeth and promote the flow of saliva.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning: If you’re worried you’ve consumed too many of your favorite seasonal beverages, head to your dentist for a teeth cleaning. The tools they use are much more powerful than a toothbrush, and you’ll leave with a smile you can be proud of.

For additional tips on how to keep your pearly whites shining this holiday season, call Dr. Robert Petrtyl’s office at (513) 554-4657. To learn more about this Cincinnati dentist and the services he offers, visit the website.