Foods That Stain Your Teeth

The reason to your teeth looking yellow could be from the things you eat. Certain foods and drinks are known to stain teeth. But you don't necessarily need to cut them off your diet entirely. Here are some stain-causing foods and drinks and how you can keep keep your teeth white while still enjoying what you love to eat and drink.

1. Coffee & Tea

Both drinks are acidic and filled with tannins. Tannins are plant compounds that bind to tooth enamel and cause yellow or brown discoloration over time.

What to do:

• Try to drink through a straw in order to reduce contact with your teeth.

• Rinse your mouth with water afterward.

• Try black tea's less staining alternatives such as green or white tea.

2. Red Wine

Red wine contains tannins and chromogens. Chromogens are pigments that easily bind to enamel. Its acidity may also soften enamel, making stains to stick more easily.

What to do:

• Take cheese or fibrous vegetables with wine in order to scrub and protect your teeth.

• Brush your teeth before consuming wine, not after.

3. Berries

Dark fruits like blueberries, blackberries, and cherries contain deep pigments that stick to your enamel.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth or drink water after eating.

• You can mix berries with yogurt or have them in smoothies to reduce direct contact with teeth.

4. Tomato Sauce and Curry

They're highly pigmented and acidic. They soften enamel and allow color to seep in.

What to do:

• Put them together with leafy greens like spinach to form a protective layer on your teeth.

• Wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth so you don't brush away softened enamel.

5. Colored Candy and Popsicles

If it turns your tongue blue or red, it will probably do the same to your teeth. Artificial dyes in candies can linger on enamel.

What to do:

• Choose lighter colored sweets when possible.

• Rinse well with water or brush when safe to do so.