5 Foods that Can Stain Teeth and 5 Foods That Clean Teeth

Most people initially blame coffee or tobacco use for stained teeth. However, the fact is that even if you abstain from these stain-causing substances, you can still be consuming foods and beverages that can dull your smile.

Foods that stain your teeth

Below are a few of the most common stain-causing foods. However, you don’t need to abstain from these foods! Simply make sure you’re using a stain-fighting toothpaste and rinsing with water after consuming stain-causing foods:

1. Tea – This may come as a surprise, but tea is more likely than coffee to cause the teeth to yellow. This is because tea (especially black tea) contains tannins. These are plant-based compounds that allow stains to more easily stick to teeth.
2. Soda – Dark-colored sodas contain chromogens, which can stain teeth. Soda is also very acidic, eroding enamel and causing teeth to stain. If you can’t kick your soda habit, consider using straws, which will allow the beverage to bypass contact with the teeth. 
3. Berries – Berries are great for your body because they provide antioxidants. However, they’re not always kind to your tooth enamel. Berries contain chromogens and the dark colors of cranberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries can cause staining.
4. Red Wine – Like tea, red wine also contains tannins. However, red wine is also very acidic. While white wine may have less pigment, it’s even more acidic than red wine, meaning it can still cause stains.
5. Balsamic Vinegar – The naturally dark color of balsamic vinegar will discolor the teeth if it isn’t brushed away quickly. However, if you’re using balsamic vinegar as a salad topper, the lettuce will help clean the vinegar away as you eat.

Foods that can clean and whiten teeth

Some foods are able to neutralize the acid in wine or soda and can even clean the teeth as you eat. These foods include:

1. Celery
2. Apples
3. Milk and Hard Cheese
4. Broccoli
5. Pineapple

For more tips on keeping your smile healthy and stain-free or to make an appointment at our office, please contact Auburn Family Dental here in Wichita, Kansas.