One of the first things people notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if yours is tinted more brown or yellow than white, you might not make a positive impression. Thankfully, your dentist can lighten your teeth with professional-grade gels for an optimal outcome.
The results usually last six months to three years, depending on how well you care for your teeth. If you want to keep your newly upgraded hue, keep reading to learn about 3 foods to avoid that can retint them over time!
Option #1: Coffee and Tea
If you’re like millions of Americans, you rely on that first sip of your favorite caffeinated beverage to get up and moving in the morning. Although coffee and tea can please your taste buds and provide a jolt of energy, they can also harm your dental health.
Not only are they acidic enough to wear down your enamel, but they also contain tannins, a natural chemical in many plants responsible for their bitter flavor. These particles bind with proteins and other organic compounds in your mouth to cling to and stain your enamel. You can prevent it by limiting how often you indulge in these darkly pigmented drinks.
Option #2: Blueberries
These small, round fruits are considered a superfood because they contain many nutrients and antioxidants that have many potential health benefits. They are full of fiber and potassium in addition to vitamin C, which supports healthy connective tissues like your gums.
Despite this, you may want to steer clear of these tiny fruits because they also have anthocyanins, which give them their deep bluish-purple color. These flavonoids can tint your fingers, face, clothing, and teeth if you’re not careful.
Option #3: Tomato Sauce
Tomatoes are a popular ingredient and can be found in everything from ketchup to pasta sauce, flavoring your food with their bright, robust flavor. However, whether you’re enjoying them blended or eating them sliced on your salad, they can leave your grin looking worse for wear.
They are also acidic and boast a rich red color, both of which can wreak havoc on your enamel. These fruits-disguised-as-vegetables have an average pH value ranging from about 4 to 4.5, and anything under 5.5 can weaken your teeth. Avoiding them is a simple and easy way to keep your grin sparkling and healthy, especially right after your whitening treatment.
If you’re still unsure which culprits to avoid after teeth whitening, you can always ask your dentist for additional recommendations!
Meet the Author
Dr. Robert Sikes has nearly 40 years of experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry and stays on top of the latest advancements in dental treatments and techniques through active participation in multiple professional organizations, like the American Dental Association. He’s happy to help improve the appearance of your smile, and can provide take-home whitening kits that include custom-fitted trays and ultra-concentrated gels for ideal results. You can request a consultation on the website or call (903) 572-9720.