We all do our best to take care of our teeth by staying on top of our brushing and flossing routine. But did you know some of the things you eat and drink every day can be undermining your efforts? Here are four common foods that can damage the luster of your smile.
Tea – You may have heard that coffee can stain teeth, but if you are a tea-drinker, you aren’t off the hook. Teas can cause more staining even than coffee, and can wear down tooth enamel.
Wine – Similarly, you may be aware that red wine can stain your teeth. But white wine also causes damage. It is actually more acidic than red wine, and damages tooth enamel. Teeth with weakened enamel are more prone to staining.
Berries – Fruit, especially dark berries, can cause stains in teeth. But these also have many beneficial qualities like antioxidants. Strike a moderate balance and clean your teeth after eating them.
Sauces – It shouldn’t be surprising that dark sauces like tomato or soy sauce that wreak havoc on clothes are also tough on teeth. These can also have high acid levels. Consider switching to lighter or creamier versions.
It is not our intent to scare you away from your favorite things to eat and drink. But you should be aware of what damage food can do to your teeth. You can avoid staining by cleaning your teeth soon after eating. Wait at least an hour to brush after eating something acidic, but you should rinse with water immediately. To learn more about oral hygiene and start your new routine, call Albrecht Family Dentistry today.