If you have started to feel that your teeth are beginning to lose a bit of their sparkle, you are not alone. This is actually something that happens to all of us naturally over time. Even the simple act of enjoying your favorite coffee or tea on a rainy day can actually contribute to the discoloration of your teeth. Here are some common foods and beverages to be aware of that can impact the brightness of your smile, and how your dentist in Erlanger can help.

Foods and Drinks that Discolor Your Teeth

Here is a list of some of the foods and drinks that can discolor or dull your smile. While you probably won’t be giving these items up completely anytime soon, it’s good to be aware of them so you can consume them in moderation.

  • Soy sauce or curries
  • Marinara sauce
  • Berries such as blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries
  • Citrus fruits
  • Coffee and tea
  • Dark cola
  • Red and white wine

Pairing water with your meals also helps to wash food debris away that might tend to sit on your teeth longer than necessary. Brushing your teeth 30 minutes after a meal can also help reduce discoloration and staining. Waiting for 30 minutes ensures that the pH balance of your mouth is restored and your enamel is not weakened and susceptible to breakdown.

Protecting Your Bright Smile

Teeth whitening in Erlanger and even a thorough professional cleaning can help to brighten your smile. Once your smile is glowing again you can protect it by drinking lots of water. This helps to wash away food debris and particles that might stain your teeth, while also keeping you from drinking a beverage that causes staining.

Eating fruits high in fiber such as apples or pears also helps to keep teeth bright since they increase saliva flow and fiber content helps to scrub teeth. You can also brush with whitening toothpaste at home to help keep your pearly whites brighter.

If you have questions about your smile or your oral health, give your dentist in Erlanger a call today to learn more.

About the Author

Dr. Darlene Henry has been caring for patients in Northern Kentucky for nearly 30 years. Patients enjoy comprehensive and high-quality dentistry delivered with a personal touch when they choose Dr. Henry for their care.

If you would like to contact Dr. Henry, she can reach online through her website or by calling the practice at 859-344-8500.