Red wine is a staple in many holiday meals and is often served when socializing with family and friends. For all the health benefits and enjoyment it provides, tooth stains are an unfortunate side effect. However, there are ways to avoid them and the staff at High Point Smile Dentistry, the leading cosmetic dentist in North Carolina, want to share how. By using the tips below, you can savor red wine without worrying about unsightly stains.

3 Tips From a Cosmetic Dentist to Avoid Red Wine Stains

1. Brush First

The porous surfaces of your teeth capture the pigments in red wine, contributing to enamel erosion and eventually leading to permanent stains. To avoid this, you need to keep pigments from attaching to your teeth, and brushing before drinking can help. In doing so, you’re creating a clean surface free of plaque that won’t let pigments sit long enough to have a negative effect.

2. Eat Cheese

Another way to avoid stains is by closing your enamel’s pores with a healthy coating. Cheese is the ideal medium, and you’ll frequently find it served with red wine. The calcium also provides your teeth with an added boost. Stick to hard cheeses, as they’re best for blocking enamel pores and usually have the highest calcium content.

3. Rinse With Sparkling Water

Saliva is great for giving your teeth a natural rinse, but it’s not always enough. To properly combat wine stains, keep some sparkling water around and rinse your mouth with it between glasses. It provides the same benefits as saliva, and the bubbles help further remove any wine pigments trapped inside of the enamel.

For more tips and dental enhancements, turn to a cosmetic dentist at High Point Smile Dentistry. They offer a variety of restorative dental services, such as teeth whitening, and can help you achieve a bright, healthy smile. Call (336) 884-4000 today to schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their services.