Six Tips to A Whiter, Brighter, Healthier Smile
Photo: courtesy of Bodum1/6Avoid Dark Drinks
"If you're a coffee or tea drinker, add milk to make them lighter and less likely to stain your teeth. You can also try lighter colored teas, staying away from the darker Earl Grey or English Breakfast types."
Photo: CN Digital Studio2/6Avoid Extreme Temperatures
"If you need soda to get through the day, drink them at a more moderate temperature—not extremely cold. Very hot or cold temperatures make teeth more porous, enabling them to adsorb stains more easily."
Photo: CN Digital Studio3/6Say No To Juice
"Fruit juices may not be the best substitute for your cola addiction. Not only are they high in sugar, leading to blood sugar spikes and inflammation, but many fruit juices, like grape and cranberry, cause teeth stains. The acids in these juices can also wear down tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to stains and bad bacteria that causes tooth decay. The real deal is best, so eat whole fruits instead. Try an apple! Not only is it a great super food, it also cleans teeth when a toothbrush and paste are not handy."
Photo: CN Digital Studio4/6Brush After Eating Berries
"Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are the most stain-producing fresh fruits. Make sure you clean teeth immediately after consuming. "
Photo: CN Digital Studio5/6Ditch Dark Sauces
"Watch the sauces you add to foods. Ketchup, soy sauce, chocolate sauce, barbecue sauce, and balsamic vinegar can all stain teeth. As yummy as they are, go light."
Photo: CN Digital Studio6/6Chew Sugarless Gum
"If you can't do a proper cleaning after consuming any teeth-staining foods or beverages, give your mouth a good rinse with water or pop in a stick of sugarless gum as a back-up. Both work when you're in a pinch."
