Do you drink wine regularly or enjoy a few glasses of juice? You may be consuming more tannins than necessary, causing stained teeth. Tannins are naturally occurring and can pose some issues that can be treated with general and cosmetic dentistry. Here’s what you need to know to protect your smile. 

What Are Tannins?

Tannins are organic compounds found in plants that give some fruits their rich colors and bitterness. Common foods that contain tannins include wine, black tea, and some fruit juices. They are the molecules responsible for creating the dry feeling in your mouth after drinking these products.

How Do They Affect Oral Health?

Jaw Pain

After consuming tannins, the salivary glands compensate for the dryness by attempting to produce a large amount of saliva. At that time, the parotid gland rapidly dilates and produces liquid, which is a shock to the musculature of the jaw. Muscles in the jaw may spasm, or involuntarily contract, causing temporary pain. People with TMJ dysfunction may find that this sensation exacerbates their condition.

Tooth Discoloration

Tannins stick to enamel and react with a compound called chromogen, which is found in wine, cherries, soy sauce, and curry. It enhances the intensity of the colors, and when it reacts with tannins, it creates tinted or stained teeth.

Cavities

Tannins interact with other products we consume, including carbohydrates, sugar, protein, and bacterial cell membranes. Because tannins stick to tooth enamel, these substances adhere to them, increasing the risk of cavities.

How Do I Prevent the Negative Effects of Tannins?

Alleviate the discoloration and painful effects of tannins by diluting heavily colored drinks with another liquid like water or milk. Also, speak to your dentist about cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening to reverse the visual effects. To prevent cavities, brush your teeth regularly after consuming foods containing tannins, and manage your sugar and carb intake.

Four Corners Dental Group in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of dental services. They specialize in preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry with over 10 years of customer satisfaction. Strengthen or whiten your teeth today by calling (907) 258-3384 (Anchorage) or (907) 376-2790 (Wasilla) or filling out their contact form online.