Some of your favourite foods and drinks might be causing stains and discolouration on the surface of your teeth.

Everyone wants a bright, white smile but unfortunately stains and discolouration are common issues for many people. Some of the biggest culprits when it comes to teeth stains are actually foods and drinks — read on to find out which ones might be affecting the appearance of your teeth and what you can do about it…

Tea and coffee

Black tea can cause stains to develop on the surface of the teeth and even other types of tea, such as white tea and certain herbal teas can also cause stains. They can also cause the enamel of the teeth to wear away because of their acidity. Similarly, drinking too much coffee can also cause staining —the tannins in both tea and coffee can build up on the enamel, which leads to discolouration.

Dark sauces

No one likes to hear that their favourite sauces might be causing discolouration, but unfortunately some well-loved sauces like soy, tomato and curry do often lead to stains. Try and swap these highly pigmented sauces for lighter coloured options instead. If you do enjoy a dark sauce, rinse your mouth with some water after eating and don’t forget to brush your teeth

Wine and soda

Red wine is one of the major culprits when it comes to stains and discolouration because of its dark colour. While white wine may not have the same dark hue, its level of acidity can also cause discolouration. Sodas also tend to cause stains because of the fact that they contain colourants, as well as the fact that they are very acidic.

Dark fruits and berries

 Fruits and berries that are highly pigmented are another major cause of discolouration. These include blackberries, blueberries, cherries, cranberries, and pomegranates in fresh, juiced and cooked versions. Dark juices like red grape juice, cranberry juice, tomato juice, and blackberry juice also often lead to stains and discolouration.

How can we help with stained teeth?

If you have noticed stains and discolouration, you might consider a teeth whitening treatment. At Marriott & Hand, we offer a number of cosmetic procedures, including whitening treatments. To find out more about the whitening treatments that we offer, please have a look here

If you are not suited to a whitening treatment, there are a number of other ways in which the colour of your teeth can be improved. These include dental veneers, crowns, inlays and onlays. When you come in for a consultation, your dentist will advise you on the treatment that best suits your unique needs.  

We also recommend that you follow good oral health hygiene in order to minimise stains and other issues. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily and rinsing your mouth with water after eating. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and if you can’t brush your teeth after every meal, chew on some sugar-free gum immediately after eating. It’s always a good idea to come in for regular dental check-ups to ensure that your oral health stays on track.

If you like to make an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.