Did you know that even perfectly healthy teeth are not pure white? The outer layer of enamel is a bright, translucent shade that allows some of the darker layer of dentin beneath to shine through. This is what gives them their natural pearly hue.
Your dentist can provide professional-grade solutions to lighten your smile and improve your appearance. However, if you aren’t careful about what you eat following your treatment, it might not be long before you need to repeat it. Continue reading to learn about 3 foods to avoid that can re-stain your teeth!
Culprit #1: Lemons
Although your enamel appears to be a completely smooth surface to the naked eye, the truth is that your teeth are covered in microscopic pores. Bleach from topical whitening opens these tubules, allowing sensation to travel more easily from the outer layer to the tender nerves inside. This can sometimes cause sensitivity or tenderness after whitening, like feeling sharp pangs whenever eating anything too hot or cold.
Lemons and other highly acidic foods have a similar impact on the surface of your teeth and only exacerbate any discomfort you might feel. Furthermore, they also thin your enamel, increasing the risk of developing cavities or injuries.
Culprit #2: Coffee or Tea
You’re not alone if you rely on a cup of coffee or tea in the morning to give you the caffeine boost you need to get started with your day. However, these beverages both contain tannins, which are naturally occurring compounds found in certain plants that give them their bitter flavor.
Unfortunately, they’re also responsible for darkening your teeth. Prolonged or repeated exposure allows these particles to settle into the pores of your teeth, leaving them looking dark and dingy. You can reduce the impact by brushing and flossing twice daily to remove plaque that tannins can cling to, and visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning to polish away more recent surface stains.
Culprit #3: Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, and cherries contain various nutrients that can support your overall health, but it’s best to avoid them if you’ve just had your teeth professionally whitened. This is because they also contain pigments that interact with your smile. These fruits are full of deeply toned cells that can stain your enamel, especially in the period immediately after whitening. Your treatment opens the pores so they’re more susceptible to soaking up discoloration, which can be prevented by taking a break from berries for a little while.
If you’d like additional tips for maintaining your recent enhancement, your dentist can provide accurate information that takes your unique situation into account!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jennifer Pham has more than a decade of experience helping families improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the Temple University School of Dentistry, and has completed additional training in topics like cosmetics, laser dentistry, implants, sedation, and neuromuscular and restorative dentistry. Today, she weaves art and science together to customize treatment plans to meet your unique needs, including teeth whitening. If you want to upgrade your grin, you can request a consultation on the website or by calling (703) 666-3867.