In addition to visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and being diligent about at-home dental care, the foods and beverages you consume can also affect oral health. While some items are great for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, others can detract from your smile by causing stains. Here are a few foods to avoid to ensure a dazzling smile. 

What Food and Drinks Can Affect the Brightness of Your Smile?

1. Coffee and Tea

Both coffee and tea contain tannins, which are organic compounds that cause the dark pigments in these beverages to cling to tooth enamel. Limiting exposure to the teeth when drinking coffee and tea can reduce the risk of staining. For instance, drink beverages quickly instead of sipping. You can also drink coffee and tea through a straw to limit dental exposure. 

2. Certain Sauces

Tomato-based sauces, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and curries are all rich and flavorful. However, they also stain teeth thanks to their dark pigments and acidic components, which wears down tooth enamel. In this case, you can limit consumption of dark sauces in favor of lighter ones, such as Alfredo. You can also visit your dentist for teeth whitening if you're already dealing with staining and discoloration. 

3. Red Wine

Much like coffee and tea, red wine also contains tannins. Like some sauces, red wine is also highly acidic, which can cause etching on the enamel where stains are most likely to be present. Limiting consumption of red wine is best to avoid staining. However, you can also sip the alcoholic beverage through a straw, similar to coffee and tea. 

4. Berries

While blackberries and blueberries are excellent for your health, they're not so great for your teeth. In addition to their dark hues, berries are also acidic and can harm enamel as a result. While you don't need to completely remove berries from your diet, be sure to drink plenty of water to rinse away dark pigments and juices. 

When seeking a reliable dentist in Ellisville, MO, Arrow Dental Care has exactly what you're looking for. For more than a decade, this skilled dental care team has provided preventive treatments in a relaxed and friendly office environment. Dr. Matt Howard and the rest of the team can also enhance your smile via teeth whitening, crowns, and dental implants. Visit the website today to learn more about their general dentistry services. You can also schedule an appointment by calling (636) 441-6999.