Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, they might still have a yellowish color you can't seem to scrub away. Practicing good dental hygiene keeps your teeth in good condition but doesn't prevent discoloration from certain foods and drinks. Several items in your everyday diet contain tannins, making them the likely culprit behind your teeth discoloration. Teeth whitening services will restore your teeth to a clean white shade, and you should avoid these foods and drinks to maintain their color.

What Are Tannins?

Tannins are organic compounds that give specific foods and drinks their bitter taste and color. The chemical makeup of these compounds causes proteins, sugars, and carbohydrates to stick to your teeth, causing staining and encouraging plaque growth. 

Which Foods and Beverages Have Tannins?

Acidic and sugary foods and drinks usually contain tannins, which gives them their delicious and unique taste. Common drinks with tannins include red wine, cocoa, coffee, herbal teas, and sodas. Tannins are also primarily found in fruits, such as berries and apples, and herbs, like mint, basil, and rosemary. 

How Can You Avoid Discoloration?

You don't need to cut out these foods completely to prevent teeth discoloration. Adding cream or milk to your coffee and tea can reduce the effects of tannins from these beverages. 

You can also rinse your mouth after consuming acidic foods to wash the organic coating from your teeth. Scheduling regular dental appointments every six months and getting occasional teeth whitening services can also help keep your teeth in pearly white condition.

If your teeth have been discolored by tannins, visit C.R. Sfeir D.D.D., General Dentistry for teeth whitening and cleaning services. This dentist has over 20 years of experience providing services to residents of Lorain, OH, and is a member of the American Dental Association, the statewide Ohio Dental Association, and the local Lorain County Dental Society. He offers general, cosmetic, and surgical dental procedures, which you can learn more about on his website. Call (440) 960-5200 to schedule an appointment with a staff member today.