If you’re a regular drinker of coffee or red wine, tannins may be doing a number on your teeth. Understanding what tannins are and how to mitigate their damaging effects is crucial if you want to enjoy a bright, stain-free smile. Along with regular visits with a skilled dentist, the following information can help prevent staining.

What Are Tannins?

Tannins are polyphenol chemicals derived from plants. In red wine, tannins cause the drying effect many wine drinkers are familiar with. While they offer a deep and complex flavor, consumption of tannins over time will lead to teeth staining and discoloration. They can also be found in many other substances. For instance, tea, dark chocolate, red beans, walnuts, coffee, and pomegranates all contain tannins.

How Can I Prevent Tannins From Staining My Teeth?

If you’re concerned about staining that has already occurred, a teeth cleaning appointment at your local dentist may be necessary. You can also look into teeth whitening procedures, which help with more significant staining. However, the best course of action is to prevent tannin stains from occurring in the first place.

Prevention is especially important when it comes to coffee. To avoid stains, dentists recommend giving up your morning cup or at least cutting back on consumption. If that’s not possible, refrain from sipping coffee throughout the day. Instead, drink your cup in one sitting, as this will limit your teeth’s exposure to tannins. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking and wait a while before brushing, as the acids in coffee can harm your teeth if you brush immediately after enjoying a cup. You may also want to try a straw to limit the beverage’s exposure to your teeth.

If you’re concerned about the brightness of your teeth, schedule an appointment with Dr. David K. Skeels. His Rochester, NY, clinic offers a number of solutions for discolored teeth, including teeth whitening, veneers, dental crowns, and bonding. If you’re a new patient, he even offers a free initial consultation and exam. Schedule an appointment with this beloved dentist by calling (585) 467-7000 today. You can also learn more about cosmetic procedures by visiting the website.