Your dentist uses professional teeth whitening techniques to lift away years of unsightly stains. But, it only takes a few weeks of bad behavior to end up with yellow teeth again. Fortunately, by knowing which menu options to avoid, you might be able to keep your teeth clean and shiny. Here are three foods and beverages you should avoid to maintain a perfect smile. 

A Brief Guide to Teeth-Staining Items

1. Red Wine & Dark Sodas 

Both red wine and dark-colored sodas, like cola, contain pigments that seep through the pores in your dental enamel to discolor the underlying dentin. Over time, these stains can become severe enough to make your teeth look gray or dark yellow, which is why opting for water is always a better idea. However, if you can’t resist the urge to splurge, ask for a straw to keep pigments from sitting on the front of your teeth. While your dentist might notice discoloration on the inner backsides of your teeth, you may, at least, be able to protect the front of your smile. 

2. Tomato-Based Sauces 

The bright red carotene compounds that give tomatoes their rich color also stain your teeth, especially when they are infused in a mildly acidic sauce. To prevent the issue, consider switching to lighter options, such as Alfredo, which don’t contain as much color. Pasta is also tasty when finished with a splash of olive oil and garlic, or when topped with a few pinches of freshly cut herbs. 

3. Most Berries

Dark, rich, juicy berries make an appetizing treat on a hot summer day, but they also pack the same phytonutrients that discolor your teeth. With the exception of strawberries, which contain high amounts of malic acid that can actually whiten your teeth, try to skip the berries in favor of a less pigmented fruit, like honeydew or cantaloupe.

Maintaining sparkling white teeth isn’t always easy. For regular cleanings that keep discoloration at bay, turn to the seasoned dentists at Valley Family Dentistry PLLC. servicing Fulton County, Hamilton County, Montgomery County, and Saratoga County with comprehensive general and family dentistry, including tooth fillings, dental cleanings, tooth restorations, and crowns.To learn more about how they can assist, visit them online. Or, call (518) 661-6405 today to schedule an appointment with a dentist.