7 foods that could be staining your teeth

Let’s face it – your teeth are one of the first things that people notice when they talk to you.

And the colour of your teeth can affect the way people perceive your appearance, both in your personal and professional life.

For many of us, we face dull and stained looking teeth due to the foods that are consumed on a regular basis – even with regular dental care.

So if you’re curious which foods to take note of, check out this list of seven foods that could be staining your teeth so you can cut down on them to gain an attractive, whiter looking smile.

1. Berries
Vibrant fruits like cherries, blueberries, cranberries, and pomegranates are great for you but can also seriously stain your teeth. Even though they are packed with the antioxidants, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, these are also potent pigments that have the potential to dye anything they touch. These pigments become trapped at the surface of your teeth, eventually altering your natural white colour. So attempt to limit your amount of berry consumption per day and brush immediately after for whiter teeth.

2. Beets
If you’ve ever spilled beet juice on your clothes, you know how easily it stains. There is no exception for your teeth either. The staining agents get right at your enamel, so try to consume in moderation if you don’t want bright red teeth.

3. Red and white wine
Sure, you’ve heard that red wine can discolour your teeth, but white wine can also influence staining, just in a different way. Where red wine’s staining abilities come from the dark tannins that turn teeth to shades of a purple grey, white wine has increased acidity levels that can erode and etch away at your enamel. Some experts believe that the acid can create pockets on the surface that allows other staining substances leach deeper, wreaking havoc on your white teeth.

4. Coffee and tea
Your favourite comfort drinks – coffee and tea, also contain tannins that are linked to discolouration of your teeth. And when it comes to tea, different types of tea turn your teeth different hues. For instance, black teas discolour teeth with a yellowish hue, and green tea turns teeth greyer.

5. Pasta sauce
Dark red coloured sauces can also leave your teeth vulnerable to staining. The acids from the tomatoes in the pasta sauce cause your enamel to become more porous, making them more susceptible to tarnishing. The combination of the dark red colour and acidity creates a double attack on your teeth.

6. Turmeric spice
If you enjoy Indian and exotic dishes, you may wish to limit your turmeric spice intake. The bold deep yellow pigments in this spice can turn your teeth just as yellow over time. Turmeric can also stain anything it touches, so be careful when using.

7. Balsamic vinegar
Another culprit that can darken your teeth is balsamic vinegar. The dark pigments as well as the sticky texture can cause dark colours to form on your enamel. Eating greens with balsamic can help to prevent the balsamic vinegar from sticking to the teeth by creating a protective film.

You don’t have to give up your favourite foods for good, just remember that moderation is key!