If you want a brighter smile, a dentist can perform a teeth whitening treatment to get the glow you want. After the appointment, don’t eat any foods and beverages that will discolor your smile. Use this guide to find out which substances to avoid and how you can replace them.

Which Foods Will Stain My Teeth?

1. Sauces

Many sauces are enriched with tomatoes, shoyu, and curry powder, and these foods’ acidic ingredients are heavily pigmented. The acid will erode the protective enamel, then allow the pigments to set onto the teeth. Instead, look for light-colored sauces made with whiter ingredients, like milk and cream.

2. Coffee & Tea

These beverages include tannins, which are polyphenol acids. This substance causes the coffee’s colored remnants to linger in your mouth and stick to teeth, turning them yellow over time. If you want to enjoy these caffeinated beverages, sip them through a straw or lid to minimize their contact with your teeth.

3. Berries

Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries contain acids that will degrade the enamel, as well as dark pigments that cause stains. If you want to get your berry fix, opt for strawberries. This red fruit contains malic acid, which breaks down discolored deposits and acts as a natural teeth whitening agent.

4. Sports Drinks

These hydrating beverages contain high levels of acids and sugars, which cause cavities and corrode the enamel. If this protective layer softens, your teeth will be more likely to stain from the colored drink. Use water if you need to rehydrate, as it’ll wash away lingering residue and won’t discolor teeth.

If you want to brighten your smile, turn to Steven A. Kumasaka, DDS, in Kaneohe, HI. Dr. Kumasaka and his team offer effective teeth whitening treatments to help their patients achieve beautiful, luminous smiles. Get more information about their services online, or call (808) 247-2240 to schedule an appointment.