What’s to Blame for Yellowing Teeth?
- Posted on: Mar 15 2017
Did you know that what you eat and drink can be a major contributor to yellow teeth? In fact, some of the worst culprits for making your teeth yellow can not only stain but can also wear away tooth enamel. Here are some of the biggest offenders:
Black Tea
Black tea contains an element called tannins, which promotes teeth staining and discoloration. And if you have other staining food or drink in addition to black tea, these tannins tend to increase the way other stains fixate themselves to your tooth enamel. Opt for green tea instead which not only minimizes teeth yellowing but is a healthier alternative.
Soda and Sports Drinks
Phosphoric and citric acids run high in many sodas, not to mention their high amounts of acidic sugar that can erode tooth enamel. Cola is especially bad due to its acidic levels and ammonia-based caramel coloring, but even lighter colored sodas and sports drinks can make your teeth yellow.
Wine
It may not be much of a surprise that red wine makes the list with its dark color, but white wine is also a problem. That’s because both types of wine contain tannins and acidic properties that prime your teeth for staining from other foods and drinks that contribute to yellowing teeth.
Dark Colored Sauces
Chili and tomato sauce, for example, attach to your dental enamel and can cause staining if left on your teeth for too long. Eating a green salad or steamed vegetables before a meal that contains a dark sauce has been shown to create a protective layer on your tooth to reduce the risk of staining your teeth – just one more reason to eat your vegetables!
Brightly Colored Fruits
Certain fruits are loaded with rich colored compounds like polyphenols, which are good for your body but not as much for your teeth. Berries, pomegranates and blueberries top the list. The best thing to do to avoid yellowing teeth from these healthy fruits is to brush as soon as possible after eating them.
Do you want to learn more about keeping your smile as white as possible? Call Smile Texas today to speak to our New Patient Coordinator at 281.265.7645 for more information, or click here to contact us.
Posted in: Teeth Whitening
