Common Food and Beverages that Stain Teeth

Patients here at Prince Frederick Dental Center frequently ask our staff what foods and beverages stain teeth. The rule of thumb is anything that will stain a white tee shirt, will stain one’s teeth. Wine is one of the top beverages that stain teeth among soda, and sports drinks. Some of these carbonated beverages have similar acidity to battery acid. Recent studies have shown that even herbal teas and white teas have the potential to stain teeth and erode tooth enamel. Berries such as blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, cherries, grapes, pomegranates and other intensely colored fruits can cause stains. Sauces such as soy sauce, tomato sauce, curry sauce and other deeply colored sauces are notorious for staining teeth. Sweets such as hard candies and popsicles often contain teeth-staining coloring agents. If your tongue turns a funny color, there is a good chance that your teeth will be affected, too. Some helpful tips to keep your teeth white are by simply using a straw. Sipping beverages through a straw is believed to help keep teeth-staining beverages away from the teeth. Swallowing promptly is also recommended. By not retaining things in your mouth for long periods of time reduces the chances of food and beverages from damaging your teeth. By simply swishing with water is a great solution, too. If you are still unsatisfied with the color of your teeth, keep in mind Prince Frederick Dental offers Zoom Whitening and porcelain veneers which can solve teeth staining problems.