Everything that goes into your mouth impacts tooth color, and certain foods and drinks are worse than others. There are known stain-causing items that you’ll want to avoid or enjoy carefully to help maintain your smile. Teeth whitening services are a great way to combat stains. Find out more about which foods and drinks can cause staining, below.

What Foods & Drinks Can Leave Stains on Your Teeth?

1. Colored Sugary Sweets

Sugary treats contain artificial coloring that can stain your teeth. Just as sucking on these sweets changes the color of your tongue, they also do the same to your teeth. These treats also promote tooth decay because of their sugar content, and you could chip or break a tooth biting down on hard varieties.

2. Coffee & Tea

Coffee and tea contain tannins that can contribute to dark tooth stains. These stains are most common among people that enjoy these beverages every day. The stains can be difficult to get rid of by only brushing your teeth. Continue to enjoy these drinks without risking tooth damage by diluting them with milk or drinking them through a straw, so the liquid bypasses your teeth.

3. Berries

Berries are packed with antioxidants and healthy vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, they can also cause stains when their bright juices sit on your teeth. If you enjoy fruits and berries, rinse your mouth after eating them to remove any remaining juice. Consider blending them into a smoothie or eating them with other fruits, like apples, that naturally clear juices from your teeth as your chew.

4. Tomato Sauces & Curries

Vibrant tomato and curry sauces can lead to teeth stains due to their rich colors. These foods are also acidic and can wear down the protective layers of enamel on your teeth. You can still enjoy these items, but rinse your mouth out afterward to be safe.

If you’re dealing with stains on your teeth and are considering teeth whitening, turn to Brian Perelmuter, DMD, P.C. in Naugatuck, CT. Dr. Perelmuter and his team have over 20 years of experience and pride themselves on their quality and compassionate care. They offer a number of cosmetic dentistry solutions for patients, including dental bridges, crowns, implants, and teeth whitening services. They also offer same-day emergency care. Explore the full scope of services online, or call (203) 729-3323 to schedule an appointment. Connect on Facebook to receive news and updates.