Many studies have concluded the same idea; the vast majority of people want whiter teeth.  While teeth whitening procedures can easily be scheduled with your local dentist, it's important to know how what we eat may be working against us. Tannin-rich foods and drinks affect the tooth's outer appearance, sticking to the cracks and ridges in tooth enamel and discoloring your smile. Avoiding food and drinks with tannins altogether may be unrealistic. Use this guide to learn ways you can counteract the effects of tannins. 

What Are Tannins?

Tannins are an organic compound that enhances the taste and color. Originally, it was used in the leather business to color animal hides. These naturally astringent compounds interact and attract protein, sugars, carbohydrates, bacterial cell membranes, and enzymes in the mouth, causing them to stick to the porous outer layer of the tooth. When these substances adhere to the enamel, it causes decay and cavities. 

What Are Some Foods and Beverages With Tannins?

Food and beverages that are tannin heavy include coffee, sports drinks, sodas, curry, chocolate, berries, apples and grapes. Red wine, cherries, and soy sauce also have a strong tannin content. However, they are also high in chromogen, a chemical compound that can be converted into a dye. Tannins react to chromogens and intensify them, which can lead to permanent discoloration. 

How Can You Avoid Discoloration?

If eliminating certain foods from your diet is impractical, consider alleviating their effects by moderating your consumption or weakening the impact it has on your oral health. Great examples of this are adding milk or creamer to your coffee or sipping water while you are drinking wine. Drinking through a straw prevents colored beverages from making contact with your teeth. 

Rinsing your mouth after consuming meals with tannin-rich ingredients will limit your exposure, as well as brushing your teeth as soon as you have the opportunity. Your dentist can always whiten your teeth, but these tips can help you help them stay bright and healthy.

When you're a patient of Henry Dale Coffey, DMD, PSC dental anxiety is a thing of the past. This dental practice creates a warm and relaxing environment so that patients of all ages feel comfortable and cared for. Whether you need a routine dental exam, teeth whitening or extraction, their professional and caring staff put you at ease. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Coffey can expertly diagnose and treat a wide range of dental issues. If you are looking for a dentist in Somerset, KY, call (606) 679-7419 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about their services.