Even if you brush your teeth religiously two or three times a day, every day, you can still end up with yellow and stained teeth. That’s because teeth discolouration is caused by the foods and drinks that you consume.
Foods that stain teeth
Citrus fruits and tomatoes are full of important nutrients for your body but they are also acidic. The acidic makeup of these foods is what can erode the enamel on your teeth which exposes the yellow-hued dentin which gives your teeth the appearance of yellow staining. Meanwhile, deep-hued foods such as blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, blackberries and pomegranates are notorious for staining teeth.
Drinks that stain teeth
The list of liquids that can lead to teeth staining discolouration is a lengthy one. Coffee, tea and red wine all contain tannins which can lead to staining and discolouration. Soda pop is laced with sugar, which bacteria in your mouth feed on; this in turn releases enamel-eroding acid. White wine is another contributor. The acids in white wine create little pockets on the surface of your teeth which allows other beverages and foods that stain to seep deeper into your teeth’s enamel.
What to do about stained or discoloured teeth
According to Colgate.com, a healthy diet and a change of habits can prevent tooth stains and preserve your pristine smile. The toothpaste maker recommends that you enjoy your favorite stain-causing foods in moderation. Try to drink water over other beverages and if you rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth within a half an hour of eating, you can significantly improve your smile. Of course, if you are unhappy with your teeth’s current shade of discolouration, the Hollywood Smile at-home, DIY teeth whitening kit can get help you recover the look of your pearly whites.
Article Sources: Which Foods Actually Stain Your Teeth (and Which Don’t)
Colgate® Oral Care Center