If your teeth are looking yellow, dull, or just not as bright as you want, you might be surprised by what's actually causing the stains. While almost everyone experiences some changes in the color of their teeth due to aging, the food and drinks you enjoy can also cause stains and discoloration. Professional teeth whitening can restore your pearly whites, but it's also helpful to avoid or limit the following stain-causing foods to keep them looking great.

Foods and Drinks That Stain Teeth 

1. Coffee and Tea

That extra shot of espresso might give you a jump-start every morning, but it may not be doing your teeth any favors. Coffee and tea contain tannins, which are chemical compounds that cause color compounds to stick to your teeth. Over time, your daily brew can leave your teeth looking yellow and stained. 

Some evidence suggests adding milk to your caffeinated drink can reduce the potential for stains, but if you prefer to take your drinks black, rinsing with water or brushing your teeth can prevent staining.

2. Red Wine 

Many dentists caution patients about enjoying red wine after teeth whitening. Red wine contains acids that can open the pores in the enamel surface of teeth, which allow the colors in food and drink to etch the surface and cause stains. In addition, red wine contains tannins that lead to staining. To prevent stains, stick to drinking white wine.

3. Red Sauces 

Tomato-based pasta and pizza sauces contain acids that can leave your teeth stained. Their bright color and tendency to stick to the surface of the teeth can also undo the results of your teeth whitening session. 

Rinsing your mouth with water right away after enjoying red sauce can help prevent staining. Eating a salad of leafy greens, like kale and spinach, can create a film over your teeth that helps prevent stains from setting in.

4. Berries

Berries are a healthy and delicious snack, but they can stain your teeth due to their dark color and acidity. Rinsing your mouth after eating them can preserve the effects of teeth whitening. Drinking a glass of milk can also help neutralize the acid and protect your pearly whites. 

If your teeth are not looking as bright and white as you would like, make an appointment with Aesthetic Dentistry of Charlottesville for teeth whitening. For 25 years, residents of central Virginia have turned to this dental practice for a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry services. Call (434) 984-3455 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the practice.