If you recently visited your dentist for a teeth whitening service, your smile is beautiful and bright. Protect it by brushing with a whitening toothpaste, visiting the dental office regularly, and avoiding enamel-staining foods and beverages. Explore the list below to find out which snacks to avoid. 

The Top 5 Teeth-Staining Food & Drinks 

1. Pasta Sauce 

The vibrant red color that makes pasta sauce so distinct causes tooth discoloration. Make your teeth whitening results last by avoiding marinara. If you love Italian food, try an olive oil or cream-based sauce instead. 

2. Coffee 

A daily cup of coffee may pick you up, but it is also affecting your teeth. Enjoy this beverage in moderation to protect your enamel. If you need energy in the morning, try drinking a large glass of water immediately after you rise. Coconut water and fruit smoothies are additional smart alternatives. 

3. Berries

Berries are packed with antioxidants, making them a healthy and low-calorie treat. However, their dark color can stain your teeth. If you enjoy blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, drink water or brush afterward. This will help wash away the food particles that could affect your enamel. Try snacking on apples, peaches, or mangoes, which have antioxidants without the discoloring effect. 

4. Red Wine 

If you smile in the mirror after drinking red wine, you will probably notice that your teeth look darker. Whether you prefer a Merlot, Cabernet, or Pinot Noir, too much will cause your whitening results to fade away. Sip on sparkling water instead.

5. Sugary Snacks 

Anything sugary will negatively impact the whiteness of your tooth enamel. Avoid soda and hard candy. Limit your intake of white flour and sweet treats. Healthier alternatives to sucrose-laden snacks include fresh fruit, coconut, yogurt, or peanut butter. 

The best way to preserve your teeth is to make excellent lifestyle choices. The cosmetic dentistry team at Premier Dental in London, KY, is here to help. To make an appointment with one of their dentists, call them at (606) 877-3002. For information about their teeth whitening services, visit their website. Learn about the advantages of dental implants, veneers, and night guards by following them on Facebook.