7 foods that heavily stain teeth
Which foods stain teeth (photo: Freepik)
Overall dental health is closely linked to one's diet. Even healthy and nutritious foods can impact the color and quality of tooth enamel in different ways. It’s important to be aware of which foods can stain teeth, according to the Best Life Online.
Coffee
Coffee tops the list of foods that stain teeth, which has led to the popularity of teeth-whitening services. Coffee is particularly harmful to tooth enamel due to its high content of heavy carbohydrates, cocoa butter, and sugar.
Tea
Black tea is equally damaging to teeth. All types of tea negatively affect dental health in different ways. Tea contains a high amount of tannins, which contribute to plaque formation on tooth enamel and can cause discoloration of the teeth.
Tomato sauce
Dentist Derek Chang explained that tomato sauce can change the color of teeth. This is because it has both high acidity and high pigmentation. These factors damage the protective layers of the teeth, allowing the color to penetrate inside.
White wine
Everyone knows that red wine can easily stain teeth, but not everyone realizes that white wine can also be a problem. Any alcoholic drink can cause discoloration because its acidity erodes the enamel on the surface of the teeth.
The acidity of white wine can make teeth softer. Sugar in alcohol can exacerbate the problem by further damaging the enamel and allowing bacteria to penetrate.
Turmeric
Turmeric can stain clothes or countertops, and it can also easily color teeth with a bright yellow hue.
Adding turmeric to a smoothie can result in a neon yellow color so pigmented that it might turn your teeth bright yellow.
Berries
Berries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them among the healthiest foods. However, despite their health benefits, berries are also bad for teeth due to their high pigmentation, which can leave stains.
Blueberries can stain teeth blue, while raspberries can cause red stains.
The combination of natural berry colors and their high sugar content can lead to yellowing of teeth. Berries stick to tooth enamel, creating a specific film. It is advisable to limit the consumption of cherries, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, and other berries.
Instead of completely avoiding this superfood, enjoy berries without negative effects by drinking water between meals and brushing your teeth.
Smoking
Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of cancer, strengthen heart health, improve respiratory function, and more.
Smoking cigarettes is extremely harmful to teeth and can turn them yellow.
This happens due to the nicotine, tar, and toxic chemicals found in cigarettes.
Earlier, we discussed why you shouldn't brush your teeth while taking a shower.
We also discussed three methods to safely whiten your teeth.
