Although regular brushing and flossing will help keep your teeth healthy and white, the foods and beverages you consume may adversely impact their appearance. Teeth whitening treatments will help you recover your bright smile if your teeth are discolored. To reduce staining, consider reducing your consumption of the following four foods and beverages.

Foods & Beverages That Cause Discoloration

1. Coffee

Although you may rely on coffee to get you up and moving each day, it has very high staining properties. Coffee contains tannins—astringent compounds that are dark in color—and acids. Acidic foods and drinks strip the enamel from your teeth and leave them vulnerable to staining. Cutting back on the coffee, drinking it from cups with to-go lids, and brushing afterward will reduce the staining impact of coffee.

2. Berries

Darkly pigmented berries, such as blueberries and blackberries, are also acidic. Rinse and swish with water after eating berries to help prevent stains from setting in.

3. Red Wine

Tannins, the same culprit in coffee that causes staining, are a principal component of red wine. Red wine leaves a gray film on teeth that can be challenging to remove without teeth whitening. White wines are less staining than reds. Opt to drink light-colored varieties, and always rinse with water after drinking.

4. Tomato Sauce

Pizza and spaghetti sauce harm enamel and lead to staining as well. Tomatoes are highly acidic. To counteract their impact on your teeth, brush and floss after eating red sauces made with tomatoes.

If your teeth have been stained because of your dietary choices, talk with one of our professionals about teeth whitening. In addition to cosmetic treatments, they also provide the preventative and restorative services you need for a healthy smile. To learn more about their dentists and services at their three locations, visit Dental Associates of Prairie Du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, and Waukon Dental online.