Do you brush meticulously twice per day, floss, visit the dentist every six months yet still suffer from teeth that appear dingy, dirty, or worn down? Discolored teeth can be caused by a number of factors, including age, genetics, certain medications, oral hygiene, and, of course, what you eat.

At the practice of Drs. Yung & Jelinek of Warrenton, VA we have whitening solutions that will restore the beauty and luster of your smile. You can help maintain your results by watching your consumption of the following foods and drinks — or, if you do partake, brushing your teeth immediately after. Keep reading, and then be sure to call 540-253-1377 to request your next appointment. We can go over our teeth whitening solutions at that time.

Coffee and Tea

If you’re like a lot of people, you can hardly imagine even leaving the house without your morning hot beverage. If you do drink these tannin-containing libations, try to keep your consumption to the morning and brush your teeth afterward.

Soda

Soft drinks are a big no-no for your teeth if you want to keep them white and bright, due to their dark color and damaging acids. If you have a soda habit, try switching to teeth-friendly water.

Wine

You’re probably not surprised that tannin-heavy red wine will discolor your teeth. But even white wine is not off the hook. It contains acids that roughen the surface of the enamel, enabling stains to stick.

Curry

Curries may be delicious with their complex blends of spices, but their intense colors may rub off on your pearly whites.

Beets

Beets are super-healthy root vegetables packed with goodness for your body. So we would never suggest giving them up. But just be aware that their deep red color will stain your teeth and try to brush your teeth after eating them.

Berries

Berries are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and are definitely a good thing for you to eat. But they can darken your teeth.

Tomato Sauce

Tomato-based pasta sauces are delicious indeed and contain some health benefits, but their acid content combined with intense red color are a recipe for stained teeth.

Juice

Fruit juices and sports drinks can discolor your teeth. Both contain acids that harm the enamel, enabling their pigments to adhere better. Try to get into the habit of drinking water instead.

Balsamic Vinegar

Dark, syrupy balsamic vinegar makes a fantastic salad dressing, but its acids and dark hue do no favors for the color of your teeth. The good news is that when you combine a balsamic dressing with lettuce, the crunchy texture of the lettuce with help keep your teeth clean.

Soy Sauce

You can’t imagine sushi or fried rice without it, but dark soy sauce will discolor your teeth. Just use sparingly and keep your toothbrush handy!

For a Bright White Smile, Watch What You Eat and Use Common Sense

There is no need to completely eliminate any of the above foods and beverages from your diet — nor would you want to, as many contain health benefits. Just be aware that they may cause discoloration of your teeth and maintain rigorous oral hygiene.

At the practice of Drs. Yung & Jelinek, we would love to discuss our teeth-whitening solutions with you. Call our Warrenton, VA office at 540-253-1377 or get in touch online.