The key to healthy eating is maintaining a colorful plate. However, in some cases, highly pigmented ingredients could have adverse effects on your dental health and tooth appearance. If you’re interested in maintaining a bright smile, the following foods might get in the way of your teeth whitening goals.

Factors That Can Counteract Your Teeth Whitening Efforts

1. Tea

While you might love to start your day with English Breakfast or get ready for bed with soothing chamomile, tea isn’t beneficial for your dental health. Because of the pigmented tannins, tea—especially black strains—can do more damage to your pearly whites than coffee.

Even teas that are light in color, such as white and herbal teas, slowly remove the protective enamel from the surface of your smile, allowing other foods to cause more discoloration. Therefore, try to restrict your tea drinking habits to two to three cups a week, and use a straw with iced tea to minimize its contact with the teeth.

2. Berries

If you’ve ever reached into a carton of blueberries or blackberries, you might have noticed that your fingers emerged stained a dark blue or purple. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that these highly pigmented fruits can easily dye your teeth.

Also, the acid in these foods can weaken your tooth enamel, contributing to further staining. For a flavorful alternative that isn’t as harsh on your smile, opt for green grapes or white cranberries in recipes.

3. Foods With Artificial Coloring

Many of your favorite sweet treats are supplemented with artificial coloring—from cake frosting and popsicles to hard candies. While it’s OK to enjoy these every once in a while, remember that these colors are not natural, and the harsh, chemical proof is easy to spot by sticking out your tongue.

If you’re baking, substitute artificial food coloring for natural dyes, such as magenta beet juice or green matcha powder. When you do partake in the fake stuff, brush immediately afterward.

If your diet has left you with unsightly dental stains, turn to Splendental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of Columbus, OH. This general dentistry team is led by Dr. Douglas Nartker, offering everything from routine cleanings to fillings, teeth whitening treatments, and clear aligners. They offer financing options and are also focused on supporting the local community by working with homegrown nonprofits. To learn more about their free whitening special, visit the website, or call (614) 588-0678 to schedule an appointment.