When you invest in a white smile, you want it to stay white. Dr. Martirosyan, our cosmetic dentist in Glendale, can help you get the most out of your teeth whitening treatment with dental tips and touch-up kits. Knowing what foods and drinks could leave traces of themselves on your teeth can also help you keep your smile exactly the way you want it.
1. Acidic foods
Citrus fruits, juices and other acidic products erode the enamel on your teeth, which can cause them to become more easily stained. Teeth can also develop a yellow or gray look when they become eroded and the dentin shows through.
2. Coffee
Coffee is notorious for staining due not only to its dark color but also its high acid content.
3. Soda
Soda combines artificial dyes, acids and sugar to create a potent, tooth-damaging drink. Likewise, energy drinks, fruit beverages and juice can be just as bad for your teeth.
4. Candy and gum
Anything with artificial dyes, including candy, gummy vitamins and fruit snacks, can stain your teeth.
5. Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, cherries, pomegranates and other berries can stain not only your favorite tablecloth, but your teeth as well.
6. Tea
Tea is good for your teeth, but it contains stain-causing chromogens that can leave them looking yellow or discolored.
7. Wine
Both white and red wines contain tannins, acids and other stain-causing substances.
Cutting back on these foods and beverages can reduce the risk of staining, but you can also take steps to protect your teeth while still indulging in your favorites. For example, use a straw when drinking something likely to stain your teeth. Also, after enjoying a stain-causing food or drink, rinse thoroughly with water to dilute oral acids. Finally, practice good dental hygiene to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause teeth to appear stained. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with Dr. Martirosyan, our expert in teeth whitening in Glendale.