Many foods and drinks we consume that are healthy for the body aren’t so healthy for our teeth. Many can stain and damage tooth enamel. Here are 10 examples with tips on how to protect your teeth before and after consuming.
10. Orange and Bright-Colored Juices
Orange juice, and other bright-colored juices, are problematic for two reasons. First, they leave a sticky residue that stays in your mouth. Second, citrus juices are acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time. Dentists recommend swallowing them as fast as you can. Better yet, use a straw to avoid contact with your teeth.
9. Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce brings a double whammy of problems for your teeth. First, the red color can stain your teeth. Second, the acids in the tomato can soften your enamel and set stains in place. Eating spinach before foods with tomato sauce can add a layer of temporary protection to help with the meal.
8. Soy Sauce
Dentists say soy sauce is one of the worst offenders for staining teeth. The dark color found in soy sauce sticks to your teeth and causes discoloration. This becomes a problem if you use it frequently. Dentists recommend taking sips of water between each bite to wash the soy sauce off your teeth. Brush your teeth ASAP after the meal.
7. Balsamic Vinegar
Unfortunately, many foods that are healthy for the body are not so healthy for your teeth. Using a balsamic vinegar-based dressing for your salad can harm your smile. Balsamic vinegar sticks to your teeth and can cause discoloration over time over time. It’s also acidic and can soften tooth enamel.
6. Tea
When it comes to staining teeth, tea can be worse than coffee. Tea contains elevated levels of chromogen and low levels of tannins. Black tea is the worst for staining teeth. Green and white tea won’t stain your teeth as much. Also, try diluting your tea to half-strength. Go easy if you add lemon – it’s acidic and softens enamel.
5. Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and some other fruits will stain your teeth if you don’t take the proper steps. Berries are a great source of antioxidants, making them something you want in your diet. Dentists say you shouldn’t avoid eating berries, just make sure to brush your teeth right after consuming them.
4. Curry
Turmeric provides the yellow color found in curry. It’s also the ingredient that will stain your teeth. However, if you add some leafy greens to your curry, it will help protect your smile. Researchers say curry helps protect against a few cancers. Dentists advise that immediately after consuming curry, you should brush your teeth and your tongue.
3. Sports Drinks
Marketers make sports drinks seem healthy. But many contain high amounts of sugar. They’re high in acid, which softens the tooth enamel. But if you drink them, avoid the darker colors because they will stain your teeth. *Note: Dentists recommend not brushing your teeth right after consuming them. Instead, drink a glass of water and wait 30 minutes before brushing.
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2. Coffee
Science has proven that coffee stains teeth. However, it also provides health benefits. Coffee is a main source of antioxidants. And that little dose of caffeine has some health benefits too. So go ahead and enjoy your cup of morning Joe. However, after you finish, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush your teeth afterward.
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1. Wine
In addition to staining your teeth, wine is very acidic and softens your enamel. Red wine can stain and discolor your teeth. *Note: Dentists recommend not brushing your teeth immediately after drinking wine. It can do more damage to your softened enamel. Instead, rinse your mouth with water after finishing wine then wait 30 minutes or so before brushing.
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