Achieving a gleaming white smile may seem like a far-off dream, but by practicing proper dental care, asking your dentist about professional teeth whitening, and combating tannins, you can reach your goal. Tannin is a substance found in many foods and beverages that can stain teeth. Here’s everything you should know about tannins and how to protect your pearly whites.

What Are Tannins?

Tannins are organic compounds that give many foods and drinks their darker color and bitter taste. In the mouth, they attract sugars, carbohydrates, proteins, and bacterial cell membranes. These substances stick to tannins coating the enamel, the outer protective surface of the tooth, leading to cavities, decay, and discoloration. 

Pigmented foods high in chromogens, a substance responsible for their color, are the worst offenders when it comes to staining. This is because tannins react with chromogens to intensify their color. The acids in many tannin-rich foods and beverages also weaken and destroy enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to stains.

Which Foods & Beverages Contain Tannins?

Some tannin-containing foods and beverages are more problematic than others. Herbal teas, for example, are on the more moderate end of the spectrum. Coffee, sodas, and sports drinks are common causes of discoloration, since many people consume these beverages daily. The foods that tend to stain most aggressively, including red wine, soy sauce, cherries, and curry, are high in chromogens. 

How Can You Stop Discoloration?

While you can try to limit foods and drinks with tannins, avoiding them altogether is not recommended. As an antioxidant, tannins may provide many health benefits, such as lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improved immune response. Fortunately, there are ways to get the best out of tannins without discoloring your teeth. 

Adding cream or milk to coffee and tea is a common strategy for lightening their color and weakening tannins. You can also drink water or rinse your mouth after consuming tannin-rich foods and beverages to prevent tannins from sticking to your teeth. If possible, brush your teeth at least 30 minutes after you eat or drink. Acids temporarily weaken enamel, so if you brush too soon, you can further damage your teeth. Schedule routine dental visits every six months for a thorough teeth cleaning. If you start to notice staining, your dentist can start you on a teeth whitening treatment.
 

If you want a brighter, whiter smile, turn to Arrow Dental Care. With convenient locations in St. Peters and Ellisville, MO, this office is dedicated to helping you maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. They provide a full range of services using innovative technology, including dental implants, teeth whitening, Invisalign®, gum disease treatment, and oral surgery. Learn more about teeth whitening services online. To schedule an appointment, call (636) 441-6999.