Nobody likes having stained teeth. Yet most people are unaware that the yellow discoloration of their teeth starts with the very foods they consume on a daily basis. 

Brought to you by the dentists at La Costa Dental, here are 5 foods that stain your teeth.

Coffee 

The go-to beverage that wakes you up in the morning is usually the main culprit behind the stains on your pearly whites. This is all thanks to the acidic polyphenols and tannins in coffee that cause the discoloration of your teeth. Plus, the acidity of coffee changes your mouth’s pH balance, which results in tooth damage over time. Especially when you eat other acidic foods after drinking coffee.

Soda

Of all the reasons to not drink soda, the overloaded amount of sugar gives the bad bacteria in your mouth a ton of sugar to eat up. This leads to the bad bacteria to release even more damaging acids in your mouth, which contribute to plaque and tartar buildup. But your local dentist in Encinitas also concluded that discolored, yellow teeth are the least of your problems when gulping down soft drinks. Sodas (especially the darker-colored ones) are so acidic, they can create holes in your teeth. And no, sugar-free soda isn’t much better either. 

Red Wine

While red wine is a fancy addition to an even fancier meal, it’s hard not to notice the dark stain on your teeth afterward. As a San Diego dentist, Del Mar, you’ll notice, is filled with fancy restaurants that feature the reddest of wines. Red wine is filled with tannins that stick to your teeth’s surface, along with the wine’s red color. Not to worry though. A nice slice of cheese with your wine can whiten your teeth and counter the staining. You could also rinse your mouth with water to reset your pallet as well.

Soy Sauce 

Soy sauce is notorious for leaving your teeth looking darker than usual. Not to mention how acidic soy sauce is to begin with. If you want to keep your teeth white before and after your meals, your best bet is to go for lighter sauces or dressings, like olive oil, for starters.

Citrus Foods & Drinks

Without a doubt, citrus-filled foods like oranges, tomatoes and others are filled with beneficial nutrients. But because of their acidic nature, eating or drinking citrus fruits can have a toll on your tooth enamel.

Stay away from these 5 foods and you’ll maintain a brighter smile much longer!

Reach Out to Your Preferred La Costa Dental Provider for Dedicated Care

Do you need to need a basic dental exam, a deep cleaning, or teeth whitening services? Perhaps it’s time for your child’s first dental checkup, or you’re just ready to restore your teeth. Whatever your oral health goals, Solana Family Dental is your go-to La Costa dental provider!