Food Choices for Fewer Tooth Stains

Red wine, cola and other dark sodas, soy sauce, tomato sauce, coffee…the list goes on and on. What do these foods, beverages and condiments have in common? They are all known to contain dark pigments likely to stain your teeth if you consume them on a regular basis. So how do you maintain a bright smile and still enjoy your favorite good eats? Here are some suggestions from Dr. Brent A. Engelberg

Foods that Help Maintain White Teeth

Crunchy fruits and vegetables, cheese, and water or seltzer deal with food stains in different ways:

• VEGGIES: Crunchy vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and celery act as natural, fibrous tooth cleaners. Also, when you chew a crunchy fruit or vegetable, your mouth produces more saliva. The saliva helps by washing away stains. Spinach, lettuce, and broccoli leave a protective film on your teeth to help fight stains before they start.
• CHEESE: Who doesn’t want cheese with a nice glass of red wine? Even if you are drinking a soft drink, coffee, or tea, eat hard cheese to coat your teeth, preventing stain particles from sticking to your smile. Eat a few bites of cheese before drinking the beverage and again if you have a second glass.
• CLEAR LIQUIDS: Clean your teeth by swishing water, white wine, or seltzer around in your mouth following each drink. Make it a ritual to have one of these clear beverages to wash away stains before you reach for another serving of your darker beverage of choice.

More Preventive Measures

Remember to enjoy stain-fighting foods during the right times to keep your teeth clean and clear of tannins. If you do consume a major tooth stainer and have no toothbrush on hand, nor access to the above-mentioned remedies, use a cloth or napkin to wipe your teeth clear of surface stains. Brush your teeth when you can, but do not brush them immediately after drinking or eating anything acidic.

ABOUT YOUR VERNON HILLS DENTIST:

Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.