How to Manage Foods That Stain and Discolor Teeth

We have searched diligently for any new foods or drinks that stain or discolor teeth. We’re happy to report there is nothing new to report. The same culprits that discolored teeth twenty years ago are still in business today. 

What To Do About It

Well, one, consume less of them. Two, brush your teeth after you’ve consumed them. Three, be sure to brush and floss twice a day. Four, do it all over again. 

Other things you can do: 

• Add milk to your hot tea or coffee. Milk has a protein called casein that attaches to the tannin molecules in tea or coffee. This prevents the tannin molecules from sticking to your teeth. Keep in mind soy and almond based milks do not have the casein protein. 
• Use a straw when drinking iced coffee, iced tea, sports drinks and carbonated beverages. A straw reduces the contact of the liquid with your front teeth keeping them from becoming discolored.
• Chew sugar-free chewing gum when you can’t brush. Surprisingly, sugar-free chewing gum can help reduce the acid that causes tooth discoloration. When you consume food and drink they produce acids. The acids deteriorate the enamel on your teeth. When you chew sugar-free gum you generate saliva. The saliva reduces the acid that attacks the enamel on your teeth. 
• Regularly eat high water and high-fiber foods. Foods like beans, spinach, broccoli, and carrots help you to produce saliva. Saliva binds with the food’s fiber to help clean your teeth. Many high fiber foods have valuable vitamins and minerals your teeth’s enamel craves. 

Obligatory List of Foods That Discolor Teeth 

Food and drink that stain teeth followed by food and drink that are good for your teeth: 

Stain causing drinks include coffee, tea, red wine and yes, white wine which has more acid than red wine. Sports drinks and carbonated drinks can also do a lot of damage. 

Tomato, curry and soy sauces have lots of acid and can create stains and discoloration. Also, blueberries, blackberries cherries and pomegranates to name a few.   

Here are some foods and drink that are good for your teeth:

Beans, broccoli, cheese, strawberries, apples, pineapples, carrots, raisins, celery and of course water. Lot’s of it. 

If you want to keep your teeth from getting stained or discolored after eating acidic foods take a moment to rinse your mouth with water. Then, brush your teeth 30 minutes later. Any sooner and you will hurt the enamel on your teeth. Or, chew on a stick of sugarless gum immediately after eating. 

And, if you want bright, white teeth ask us about our teeth-whitening program. You’ll love the results. 

Call 301-249-3333 or Book Online Appointment