Many of the foods and drinks you consume contain certain dyes, acids, sugars, and other ingredients that can stain your teeth and slowly wear them down. While it may be impossible to avoid any type of ingredient that can harm your teeth, there are plenty of steps you can take to limit staining. Take a look at some dentist-approved tips to keep your teeth white. 

3 Tips to Help You Prevent Stains on Your Teeth

1. Eat Foods That are Good for Your Teeth

Coffee, red wine, tomato sauce, and many other acidic foods and drinks can easily damage and stain your teeth. However, there are plenty of other options that can naturally help reduce these issues. Certain fruits like apples, pineapples, and strawberries have special malic and citric acids that act as an agent in natural whitening. 

The calcium in broccoli and cheese has a similar effect, and even drinking water from the tap provides you with fluoride, the mineral that strengthens and protects teeth from the effects of sugar and bacteria.

2. Avoid Tobacco

The chemicals in smoking products and chewing tobacco not only yellow and brown your teeth faster than most foods, but they can also become a serious threat to your overall health. Tobacco products prevent your teeth and gums from natural healing, which exposes them to the threat of gum disease.

3. See Your Dentist Regularly

Even if you avoid teeth-staining food and don't smoke, brushing and flossing aren't enough to keep your teeth perfectly white. Tartar and plaque will naturally build up, and only cleaning from a dentist can remove them. Additionally, most dental offices provide professional teeth whitening, which lasts longer than the results from over-the-counter products. 
 

If you're overdue for a dental checkup and want to get your teeth whiter, turn to Martin & Rutledge Family Dentistry in Gulf Shores, AL. Since 1993, this dental office has earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau® for their peaceful office atmosphere, their strong relationships with clients throughout South Baldwin County, and their dedicated efforts in keeping your teeth, gums, and jaw healthy for years to come. For more information, visit their website and call (251) 968-4446.