Sweet Food & Drink

The sugars in these foods and drinks break down your enamel and make it more vulnerable to staining. The dyes used to color them can also stay on your teeth.

• Candy
• Soda
• Sports drinks

In addition to staining your teeth, too much sugar will allow plaque to build up and cause tooth decay.

Acidic Food & Drink

Like sugar, acid and carbonation damage your tooth enamel. Acidic foods and drinks open the pores on your teeth, leaving them open to more damage.

• Tomato sauce
• Lemon juice
• Soy sauce
• Carbonated drinks

If you do consume acidic foods or drinks, wait at least an hour to brush your teeth to let your enamel harden again.

Dark Food & Drink

These foods and drinks contain tannins. Tannins do provide some health benefits like disease prevention and improved digestion because they are polyphenols. Unfortunately, tannins also increase the likelihood of staining your teeth because they cause natural colors and artificial dyes to stick to them.

• Red wine
• Berries
• Coffee
• Tea

Other Ways to Fight Stains

These foods and drinks may stain your teeth more quickly, but they aren't the only culprits. Smoking can cause discoloration, and teeth become darker as you age due to thinning enamel showing the dentin underneath. If you are looking for a more permanent solution to discolored teeth, ask your dentist about veneers and crowns.

At WestLake Dental Care, we want to give you the tools to keep your teeth in the best possible condition. Contact us today to schedule a cleaning or learn more about whitening services.